Journey Toward Regenerative Agriculture with Hinton Legacy LLC

Every farm has a story, and for Hinton Legacy LLC, that story is one of persistence, family commitment, and a steady drive to improve the land for the next generation.

Hinton Legacy LLC, located in Breckinridge, KY is operated by Steven and Carol Hinton along with their daughters Mary Hinton and Elizabeth Gipson, son-in-law Dylan Gipson, and their grandchildren, is a multigenerational, Kentucky farm working to build a stronger and healthier operation for the future. With cropland, pasture, and family forestland, the Hinton family is deeply connected to the land they manage and committed to preserving it for the next generation.

When the family first contacted the U.S. Departments of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) in October 2024, they were facing several challenges related to productivity and sustainability. Pest pressure, gully erosion, soil compaction, organic matter loss, and water quality concerns were affecting their farm. While their first funding request was not approved, they continued working with NRCS each year to develop a practical whole farm conservation plan.

In 2025, their persistence paid off when they received forest health funding to develop a Forest Management Plan and design practices to improve their woodland. By 2026, they secured an EQIP Regenerative Pilot Program contract to address soil and water concerns. Their planned practices include soil health testing, crop rotation, no till, cover crops, mulching, pasture and hay planting, and installing a grassed waterway. These efforts will help rebuild depleted soil, save labor, improve water infiltration, protect water quality, and support long term soil fertility and resilience.

The benefits go beyond environmental impact. Stronger soil structure and reduced tillage mean fewer field passes, less time in the tractor, and reduced fuel costs. Cover crops and crop rotation support healthier plants and more consistent yields. Water management practices such as grassed waterways help stabilize fields and reduce soil loss. Together, these steps move the entire operation toward healthier soils, more stable production, and a sustainable future.

The Hinton family’s progress reflects the goals of the Regenerative Pilot Program, which focuses on whole farm systems that improve soil health, reduce erosion, build resilience, and support long term farm viability.

Through the Regenerative Pilot Program, producers can streamline conservation implementation and develop plans that strengthen soil function, productivity, and economic stability. Producers across Kentucky who want to improve soil health, reduce erosion, or strengthen the long-term viability of their operations are encouraged to contact their local NRCS office to learn more about the Regenerative Pilot Program and other conservation opportunities.