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.
2021 Event
Harmony Hills Farm Kevin & Carolyn Parr August 13, 2021
Nestled amongst Wisconsin's southwestern valleys, Harmony Hills Farms has been in operation as family farm for over six decades. The operation is comprised of 295 acres, with 140 acres of tillable land and the remaining acreage is vibrant woods.
Kevin and Carolyn Parr currently manage the farm where Kevin was born. Over the years, the Parrs have milked cows, raised tobacco, and grown a variety of crops.
After renting the land for 15 years, Kevin grew frustrated by the ruts and ditches forming on his landscape. Their sons want to continue the farm, so Parr knew he had to protect the soil. In the years since, the land has been converted from a highly eroding cropland to good rational pasture.
In addition to running his own sawmill, Parr is also working to form the Bad Axe Farmer Led Watershed Council. He is actively working with his neighbors to promote good soil health practices.
The day's events included muliple interactive options for attendees to learn about conservation practices.
Harmony Hills Farms | Vernon County
