The Lower Chattahoochee River SWCD

The Lower Chattahoochee River SWCD has been awarding conservationist within the nine-county district this highest award for the last 62 years. This is given to the outstanding conservationists in the surrounding counties that represent the Lower Chattahoochee River Soil & Water Conservation District. Hiram Bo Beard, of Randolph County preceded the evening program, which was held at Goolsby Farm Supply in Dawson GA.

The Carter family boasts a remarkable 192-year history of farm & timberland ownership in Sumter & Webster Counties, with a portion of their farm dating back to 1833.Throughout the generations, the Carters have demonstrated unwavering stewardship of the land. Durning the Great Depression, Earl Carter, President Carter’s father, pioneered the implementation of terraces in Webster County to combat soil erosion. Today, the Carters’ dedication to environmental stewardship shines through their initiative to plant nearly 1,500 acres of longleaf pine, contributing to the restoration of the native ecosystem in the Southeast. This endeavor promises to yield a myriad of benefits, including enhanced wildlife habitats, aesthetic appeal, and economic opportunities, which will positively impact generations to come, further solidifying the Carter family’s longstanding legacy of responsible land management. Quote from Chip Carter “Our family is honored to be chosen for this award. My family’s legacy is a deep love of the land entrusted to us.” Congratulations this year’s Conservationist of the Year for Sumter County Carter’s Farm, Inc.

Additional winners included Isler Farms Partnership from Clay County; Melvin Lonzie Jimmerson/MJ Angus Farm from Lee County; Self Family Farms/Larry Matthew Self from Quitman County; Wilson Farms, Inc./David E. & John Michael Wilson from Randolph County; Danny L. Kirkland from Schley County; Brad Stovall from Stewart County; Jeff Erickson from Terrell County; and Michael R. Pearce from Webster County. It is through these conservationists’ efforts that our Natural Resources are preserved for future generations.

For more information about the District, please see the district website at www.gacd.us/lowerchattahoocheeriver.