L & J Farm of Harrington, Del. was one of six farms across the United States to receive U.S. Poultry & Egg Association’s Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award during the 2024 International Production & Processing Expo in Atlanta. U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) sponsors the annual awards in recognition of exemplary environmental stewardship by family farmers engaged in poultry and egg production.

Applicants were rated in several categories, including nutrient management planning, implementation of novel sustainability practices, community involvement, innovative litter or manure management techniques, and participation in education or outreach programs. Applications were reviewed and farm visits conducted by a team of environmental professionals from universities, regulatory agencies and state poultry associations.

Linda and John Brown raise 150,000 organic broiler chickens per flock for Perdue Farms. As the first commercial organic farm on Delmarva, the Browns have always viewed their farm as a showcase for how to do the right things for the environment as well as their neighbors. They have opened their doors to many people over the years, including professionals, CEOs, farm suppliers, buyers, schools and more.

The Browns makes use of an EcoDrum composter, and their farm is the first in Delaware to take advantage of the USDA cost share program to install this equipment. Litter is primarily windrowed, with partial and complete cleanouts when necessary. They test their litter annually, and all litter removed from the farm is used to fertilize cropland off their farm.

Linda is an officer on the Tax Ditch Committee, part of the network of drainage ditches on Delmarva that help protect the Chesapeake Bay watershed. The Browns also take online courses to keep up with the latest best management practices.

Linda and John have implemented many measures on their farm to make it more environmentally friendly, as well as neighbor friendly. Grass buffers at fans and tree buffers along the property line help to ensure that dust and odors are contained. A pollinator garden, heavy use pads, improved roads and stormwater drainage ponds help to protect and enhance the surrounding environment. Using solar energy collected from an array located on their farm helps to reduce their carbon footprint.

Mike Levengood, vice president, Chief Animal Care Officer and Farmer Relationship Advocate for Perdue Farms, past USPOULTRY chair and current USPOULTRY board member, presented the award to Linda and John Brown.