Are you aware of a farmer who’s making a real difference in protecting our precious water resources? We’re on the lookout for those individuals who, through their diligent conservation management practices, are helping keep Indiana’s rivers, lakes, and streams clean. It’s time to give them the recognition they deserve through the River Friendly Farmer (RFF) Award Program.
River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony
August 2025
(exact date will be confirmed soon!)
1:00 pm (Eastern)
Check-in for award recipients 11 am to 12: 30 pm
Indiana State Fairgrounds, 4-H Exhibit Hall
1202 E. 38th Street, Indianapolis, IN 46205
River Friendly Farmer Nominations
Annually, Indiana’s Soil and Water Conservation Districts have the opportunity to nominate up to two outstanding River Friendly Farmers from their county who are dedicated to protecting Indiana’s water quality. Watershed organizations can also submit nominees through their local SWCD. This prestigious annual award honors farmers for their exceptional soil and water conservation practices. The celebration will take place in August 2025 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds!
To Nominate a RFF
- Fill out the online nomination form by 5 pm (Eastern) on Friday, June 6, 2025. (coming soon!)
- Complete the required signature page. This page must include three original signatures for verification from the nominee, an SWCD staff person and a technical representative. The signature page must be filled out and either scanned and emailed to Amy Work at: amy-work@iaswcd.org or mailed to IASWCD at 225 S. East St, Ste. 142, Indianapolis, IN 46202 and received by June 6. Nominations are not complete until the signature page is received. Signature page (word doc) or Signature page (pdf)
2024 River Friendly Farmer Award Recipients
What is the River Friendly Farmer (RFF) Award Program?
The RFF Program is a statewide initiative sponsored by key conservation and agricultural organizations. Since 1999, we’ve been honoring farmers who go above and beyond in their commitment to good production management practices that protect our waterways.
Who Can Nominate?
Each county Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) has the opportunity to nominate up to two farmers annually who they believe are doing an outstanding job of safeguarding our rivers, lakes, and streams. Watershed organizations can also nominate farmers for the award by submitting an application through a county SWCD.
Who Can Be Nominated?
Farmers or landowners who consistently demonstrate excellent conservation management practices on their farm are prime candidates for this award. It’s not just about the big gestures, but the everyday actions that contribute to cleaner, healthier waterways.
How to Nominate
Nominations are closed for 2024.
- Identify a farmer or landowner who is making a significant positive impact on water conservation.
- SWCDs can submit up to two applications to IASWCD via the online nomination form.
- Submit the required Signature Page with evidence of the nominee’s conservation management practices.
Note: Nominations are only accepted via the online form, however, the nomination questions can be previewed prior to filling out the online form.
Let’s Celebrate our River Friendly Farmers
Our rivers, lakes, and streams are vital to our state’s health and prosperity. It’s time to shine a spotlight on the farmers who are doing their part to protect these precious resources. Please help us recognize their efforts by nominating a deserving farmer or landowner today.
“The health of our waterways is a reflection of the stewardship of our land.”
Let’s take a moment to appreciate those who are making a difference. Nominate a river friendly farmer today.
Thank you to the primary sponsors of this program:
