Nominations sought for new Spencer Award

The Leopold Center is seeking farmers, researchers and educators who have helped sustain and support Iowa's family farms to apply for the 2002 Spencer Award for Sustainable Agriculture.

The new award recognizes an individual or group that has made a significant contribution toward the ecological and economic stability of mainstream family farms in Iowa. Contributions can be practical improvements in a family-owned farming operation, research projects, or educational activities and other work that have improved a family-owned farming operation.

The Spencer Award honors the beliefs, innovations and stewardship of Norman and Margaretha Spencer, who farmed near Sioux City for 40 years. It is funded by a $20,000 endowment from the Spencer family, who asked that the Leopold Center administer the award.

The 2002 award includes a $1,000 cash prize. Candidates can apply for the award or be nominated by someone else.

Candidates will be evaluated according to the following criteria:

• the candidate has made a significant contribution that influences the ecological and economic stability of mainstream family farms in Iowa;
• the achievement represents significant research, technical or practice advancement or education, and
• the candidate has demonstrated a continuing commitment to the sustainability of mainstream family farms.

Award guidelines and a nomination form will be available after January 1, 2002. For more information, contact Laura Miller at the Leopold Center, (515) 294-5272. The application deadline is March 30, 2002