News

Conservation partnership in Michigan

Michigan Association of Conservation Districts President Art Pelon tells Brownfield conservation planning starts with a vision for future generations and a visit to a local conservation district.

“The local conservation districts actually are the gateway for the customer to come in and apply, and research the projects that are available through not only through the farm bill programs, but programs offered by the Department of Natural Resources, the Michigan Department of Agriculture—it’s a combined effort.”

He says conservation practices have changed the landscape on his farm in Ionia County.

“Ask, ‘What programs may benefit or what suggestions can you make for me to do a program on my own?’”  He says, “You don’t necessarily have to sign up for a government program to improve your own property.”

Pelon says projects for farmers to protect water quality in the Western Lake Erie Basin and the Saginaw Bay need to continue, but landowners of all sizes can make a difference to improve environmental stewardship.

Pelon spoke with Brownfield during the Michigan Association of Conservation Districts Summer Conference in Bay City, Michigan.