Tim Kelley of Elmo Receives PFI’s 2024 Farmland Owner Legacy Award
Award recognizes role non-operator farmland owners play in the success of sustainable agriculture
Contact: Elizabeth Wilhelm | Media Relations Coordinator | (515) 232-5661 | elizabeth.wilhelm@practicalfarmers.org
AMES, Iowa (Oct. 8, 2024) — Practical Farmers of Iowa has awarded the 2024 Farmland Owner Legacy Award to Tim Kelley of Elmo, Missouri, for his commitment to conservation and creating opportunities for the next generation of farmers. The award was presented on Friday, Sept. 13, at a cover crop field day in Elmo, MO.
Tim Kelley and his sister, Margaret Kelley, co-own around 800 acres of farmland in northwestern Missouri. Over the years, they have made significant investments in long-term soil health and have been committed to working with beginning farmers who also value stewardship of the land.
“Tim has gone above and beyond as a landowner,” said Sally Worley, PFI’s executive director. “It’s tempting for non-operating landowners to take the path of least resistance when managing their land, and the downside of this is often less conservation and less opportunities for beginning farmers. We’re grateful for Tim’s efforts and are happy to recognize his outstanding work.”
Non-operating farmland owners play a critical role in the future of sustainable farming. According to The Nature Conservancy, 62% of farmland in the Midwest is owned by non-operating landowners. Because these landowners can guide land management and encourage sustainable farming practices, they have tremendous potential to enhance stewardship across the Midwest.
The Farmland Owner Legacy Award, granted annually, recognizes landowners who use their land to:
- Help the next generation get started
- Advance land stewardship and environmental quality
- Promote long-term sustainability of farm businesses
- Strengthen rural communities
Tim and Margaret’s land, which has been in the family since 1907, includes corn, soybeans, small grains, cover crops, restored cool-season and warm-season grass pastures, cool-season grassed headlands, filter strips, and, most recently, a restored oxbow.
Tim believes that farmland owners have the responsibility to leave the land better than they found it. When asked about what drove him towards conservation, he said, “The more that I learned, it seemed obvious that it was the right thing to do. Plus, the more one does, the more one sees what can be accomplished.”
Brent Nold of Savannah, Missouri, is Tim Kelley’s current land tenant. Together, they share a vision for the farm and work to improve long-term soil health.
“Tim has been a great partner to work with, and both him and Margaret have gone above and beyond to make sure our goals are met,” Brent says. “Tim is always willing to brainstorm and tries to find opportunities to help us achieve those goals. I truly feel Tim always has my and the land’s best interest in mind.”
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About Practical Farmers: Practical Farmers of Iowa is a nonprofit with more than 8,000 members that equips farmers to build resilient farms and communities. We create learning opportunities via farmer-led events, on-farm research and educational content through our robust network of farmers. We also provide funding and technical assistance to help farmers adopt regenerative farming practices and grow farm businesses. Our vision is an Iowa with healthy soil, healthy food, clean air, clean water, resilient farms and vibrant communities. To learn more, visit http://practicalfarmers.org.