What is the River Friendly Farmer (RFF) Award Program?
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.
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.
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 2026 at the Indiana State Fairgrounds!
Award Ceremony
Approximately 200 farmers, family members, conservation partners, and guests gathered during the Indiana State Fair on August 18, 2026 to celebrate this year’s River Friendly Farmer Award recipients. The ceremony honored farmers who have implemented proven conservation practices—such as cover crops, no-till farming, field borders, and other innovative approaches—to reduce erosion, improve water quality, and build healthy soils. These efforts help protect Indiana’s rivers, streams, and lakes while contributing to healthier waterways far beyond the state’s borders.
2026 River Friendly Farmer Award Recipients
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.
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:
