Yuma farmer John Boelts (left) hosted Parker, Arizona, NRCS Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) coordinator Danny Markus at the 3,600-acre Coronation Peak Ranches that John helps manage

RC&D Coordinator “Walks-A-Mile” in Yuma Farmer’s Boots

Yuma farmer John Boelts hosted Parker, Arizona, NRCS Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) coordinator Danny Markus at the 3,600-acre Coronation Peak Ranches that John helps manage.  Both have benefited from the collaboration.  “I knew NRCS had rural and community development, but I had no idea how it worked,” said Boelts.  “I’ve gotten some ideas, and it’s got me thinking in other areas.”

The “Walk a Mile in My Boots” initiative is a work-exchange program between agricultural producers and government employees.  NRCS is working with the National Association of Conservation Districts to implement this partnership program that was developed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  Exchanges that average around ten days will provide opportunities for producers and NRCS employees to learn more about each other’s lifestyles, issues, and operations.  Agricultural producers involved will visit NRCS field offices, State offices or NRCS headquarters in Washington, D.C.  They may shadow biologists, managers or other specialists; conduct outdoor field activities; attend agricultural meetings; and work with USDA officials. Outdoor activities might include water control monitoring, wildlife habitat planting, branding and vaccinating calves, moving and feeding livestock, irrigating cropland, building and maintaining conservation buffers, or haying.

For Markus, the journey with Boelts was new territory.  Boelts has limited farm experience, his background being in business and forestry.  “John’s knowledge is so comprehensive and diverse,” said Markus.  “I would think that it could take a lifetime to master all his skills.”

Boelts as all agricultural producers involved with the with Walk-A-Mile in My Boots, first sign-up as Earth Team Volunteers.  NRCS employees also fill out an application to be approved for the program.  The staff at LANDCARE receives all the applications from farmers, ranchers, and NRCS employees, and they begin the coordination.  State Earth Team Coordinators follow up to ensure the matches are made. Arizona is one of five States as part of the pilot Walk-A-Mile program.  California, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah are planning exchanges as well.
Your contacts are NRCS public affairs specialists Renee Bodine, at 602-280-8778 or George Couch, at 602-280-8806.