The Kansas Soybean Association and the American Soybean Association (ASA) announced that Kevin Compton, Compton Farms, Hiawatha, Kansas, has been named 2008 West Region Conservation Legacy Winner.  “Kevin has an excellent conservation ethic, which is evident as you view his farming operation.  He has addressed conservation issues such as gully erosion along with water quality through both management and structural conservation practices,” said NRCS district conservationist Matt Sprick.

In its 7th year, the Conservation Legacy Awards Program is a national program designed to recognize the outstanding environmental and conservation achievements of U.S. soybean farmers.  Selection is based on each farmer’s environmental and economic program.  Judges look for dedication to the land through cropland management practices, farmstead protection, and conservation and environmental management.

Compton was one of four regional winners of this program.  This is the sixth consecutive year a Kansas soybean farmer has won the Western Region Award.

This year marks 100 years that the Compton Farms operation – started by Kevin Compton’s grandfather – has been in the family.  “It’s our responsibility to treat the land we raise our families on with respect so future generations have the same opportunities with it that we have enjoyed,” said Kevin.  Compton farms 2,900 acres of corn and soybeans with the help of two part-time employees and his son Chad.  All of the acres have been terraced or farmed in contours.  About 2,600 acres are in no-till with the rest in minimum-till, strip-till and cover crops.  Compton understands the benefits no-till and crop rotation offer, such as a reduction in pesticide use.

All of Compton’s fertilizer is handled in a containment area and he stores petroleum in a separate area where runoff can be contained.  To cut back on soil erosion, he planted three acres of shelterbelt windbreaks in 1979 and is planning on putting in two more this year.  He leaves hedge rows around the farm for wind protection and wildlife habitat and plans to add food plots soon.
Your contact is NRCS public affairs specialist Mary Schaffer at 785-823-4571.