U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) recognized six poultry farms that were nominated for the annual Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award at the International Poultry Expo, part of the 2024 International Production & Processing Expo. The award is given annually to recognize exemplary environmental stewardship by family farmers engaged in poultry and egg production.

“The outstanding job these family farms do in being good stewards of their land is an honor to celebrate. Our industry could not continue to perform and flourish without taking proper care of our natural resources. These six winners are to be commended for their efforts,” remarked Jarod Morrison, Farbest Foods, and outgoing USPOULTRY chair.

Applicants were rated in several categories, including litter management, nutrient management planning, community involvement, wildlife enhancement techniques, innovative nutrient management techniques and participation in education or outreach programs. In selecting the national winners and finalists, applications were reviewed, and farm visits conducted, by a team of environmental professionals from universities, regulatory agencies and poultry associations.

The winners were chosen from six geographical regions throughout the United States and included a State Poultry Association nomination. The winners are as follows:

State Poultry Association Nomination winner – L & J Farm, Harrington, Delaware
Linda and John Brown, nominated by the Delmarva Chicken Association

North Central Region winner – Brush Creek Henhouse LLC, Leon, Iowa
Mark, Alana and Sarah Yoder, nominated by the North Central Poultry Association

Northeast Region winner – Miller Farm, Rockingham, Virginia
Craig and Nancy Miller, nominated by Cargill

South Central Region winner – McGowin Farms, Tuscumbia, Missouri
Josh and Annie McGowin, nominated by Cargill

Southeast Region winner – Isbell Family Farms, Mayfield, Kentucky
Tyler and Sarah Isbell, nominated by the Kentucky Poultry Federation

Southwest Region winner – Big Valley Farm, Elkins, Arkansas
Robert and Jennifer Sizemore, nominated by Cargill

There were also two finalists nominated. They are as follows.

State Poultry Association Nomination finalist – Swafford Farms, Dresden, Tennessee
Keith and Jeanna Swafford, nominated by the Tennessee Poultry Association

South Central Region finalist - Gabel Farm, Galena, Missouri
Norbert and Susan Gabel, nominated by Cargill