Conservation Observance Day

A free event showcasing conservation practices and celebrating the significant contributions of farm families to their community and across Wisconsin.

Conservation Observance Day is an annual event that recognizes the outstanding achievements of Wisconsin landowners who are protecting and enhancing our state’s natural resources.

This free event is hosted by the winner of the Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award and funded in part by the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).

The Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award is announced during our annual conference, and the winners host that year's Conservation Observance Day.

The event attracts a statewide audience comprised of county board members, county land and water conservation department staff, DATCP and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) staff, and United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) personnel, and others interested in the protection and sustainable use of Wisconsin’s natural resources.

The day consists of speaker presentations, lunch, and tours of the farm.

Save the Date

Conservation Observance Day at Schoepp Farms set for June 23, 2023

When visitors arrive to Schoepp Farms in West Point township in Columbia County, they are instantly struck by the picturesque view of Lake Wisconsin, which is located just adjacent and downslope of the third-generation farm. However, the view is not the only impressive thing to be found at the 600+ acre operation. For decades, Ron, Dave, and Nancy Schoepp have continued to look for ways to implement and promote conservation practices and soil health principles on their farm. That dedication earned them recognition from WI Land+Water as the 2023 Conservation Farm Family of the Year. As recipients of the award, the Schoepps will also host the state’s next Conservation Observance Day. The free public event will showcase the family’s conservation practices, as well as their impact on the community and watershed. During the daylong event, visitors will have the opportunity to stop at various educational stations around the farm, including a rainfall simulator, soil pit, cover crop field, and barnyard conservation practice.

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“Conservation Observance Day is a moment of celebration where we commend the tremendous conservation ethic demonstrated by our Conservation Farm Family of the Year Award winners. We can all learn and gain inspiration from their example.”