By Delaware County SWCD—
YORKTOWN, IN—Spangler Family Farms in Yorktown was recognized at the Indiana State Fairgrounds for their outstanding commitment to conservation and land stewardship during the 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony.
Approximately 200 farmers, family members, conservation partners, and guests gathered in the 4-H Exhibit Hall Auditorium 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.
Special guest Don Lamb, Director, Indiana State Department of Agriculture, joined the celebration and recognized the dedication of Indiana farmers who are committed to protecting the land and water resources that sustain their farms and communities.
Local farmer Spangler Family Farms, nominated by the Delaware County Soil and Water Conservation District, was among this year’s honorees. Spangler Family Farms utilizes filter strips, grassed waterways, and significant tree plantings to help slow and filter runoff from the farm. These practices help reduce erosion and protect Indiana’s waterways.
A shared theme among this year’s recipients is a commitment to leaving the land better than they found it, and Spangler Family Farms is no exception. Through thoughtful stewardship and a dedication to conservation, they are helping protect Indiana’s natural resources for future generations.
The River Friendly Farmer Award is a program of the Indiana Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts (IASWCD) and Indiana’s 92 Soil and Water Conservation Districts.
The 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award Ceremony was sponsored by:
- Indiana Farm Bureau
- The Nature Conservancy
- Indiana Corn Marketing Council
- Indiana Soybean Alliance
- Indiana State Department of Agriculture
A full list of 2026 River Friendly Farmer Award recipients is available on the River Friendly Farmer Award page.
2026 River Friendly Farmer group photo. Photo provided.
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