Op-Ed: Honoring Indiana’s Stewards of the Land this Earth Day

By: Damarys Mortenson, Indiana State Conservationist 

As Earth Day arrives, the Indiana Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) proudly pays tribute to the hardworking farmers and forestland owners who serve as stewards of our natural resources. Farmers don’t just feed and clothe our communities, they also play a vital role in protecting the land, water and wildlife that make Indiana special.

Conservation is not just a buzzword.  For Indiana’s agricultural and forestry community, it’s a way of life.  Every cover crop planted, every buffer strip established, and every nutrient management plan adopted represents a deliberate choice to invest in the long-term health of the land. It’s these conservation practices, supported by the technical expertise and voluntary programs of NRCS, that help build healthy soils, improve water quality and create vital wildlife habitat across the state.

Earth Day is a time for many to reflect on the importance of protecting our planet, but for Indiana’s landowners, this work happens every day. Through their dedication and partnership, we are seeing measurable improvements in soil resilience, cleaner waterways and more abundant native plant and animal biodiversity. Their efforts are not only shaping the landscape but also ensuring it remains productive and beneficial for future generations. 

At NRCS, we are honored to work alongside and support these stewards of the land. Our shared commitment to conservation goes beyond a single day — it’s a year-round mission that strengthens our ecosystems and honors the deep-rooted connection between people and the natural world.

This Earth Day, we say thank you to Indiana’s farmers and forestland owners. Your leadership in conservation inspires us, and we remain committed to supporting your work with science-based, voluntary solutions, hands-on support and unwavering respect. Together, we’re not just celebrating Earth Day, we’re building a legacy of sustainability for the generations to come. 

About NRCS

For more than 90 years, NRCS has helped farmers, ranchers and forestland owners make investments in their operations and local communities to improve the quality of our air, water, soil, and wildlife habitat.  NRCS uses the latest science and technology to help keep working lands working, boost agricultural economies, and increase the competitiveness of American agriculture. NRCS provides one-on-one, personalized advice and financial assistance and works with producers to help them reach their goals through voluntary, incentive-based conservation programs. For more information, visit nrcs.usda.gov.