Source: NCDA&CS, 9/19/18

Scott and Lisa Baucom of Marshville were recently named the Outstanding Conservation Farm Family of 2018 by the N.C. Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts. The Baucoms take the initiative to implement sound, innovative, and cost-effective conservation techniques on their family farm. They have integrated several best management practices into their operations, including rotational grazing, cover cropping and poultry composting.

“As a former district supervisor, I understand what a true honor this is, and what a commitment the Baucoms have made to conservation practices on their farm,” said Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. “Just as important as incorporating these practices, the Baucoms have generously opened their farm to share conservation and research information with other farmers.”

The Baucom family owns and operates Fence Row Farms in Union County, about 30 miles east of Charlotte. Their diversified farm includes over 200 acres of pasture and hay land, more than 80 head of cattle and four chicken houses. Fence Row Farms utilizes techniques such as cropland conversion, livestock exclusion and no-till methods. They also make use of dry stacks, composters, incinerators and energy efficient equipment. They are the first farm in Union County to be recognized for this award.

In addition to their conservation practices, the family is deeply rooted in the community. Scott is a previous Union County Soil and Water Conservation Supervisor, a board member of the local volunteer fire department, Pastor of the Fairfield Community Baptist Church, Vice President of the NC Gelbvieh Association, board member of the Union County Cattlemen’s Association and an advisory committee member for Piedmont Regional Poultry.

Lisa assists with management of the farm and administrative operations. She and Scott have hosted a variety of events that demonstrate the management practices they incorporate, including Union County Agriculture tours and farm visits, forage and livestock field days, the Ryegrass Viability Field Day (in conjunction with NC State University) and the Amazing Grazing workshop.

Through these events, the Baucom family exhibits the benefits of their methods.

Each year since 1983, the N.C. Association of Soil and Water Conservation Districts has reviewed nominations for the Conservation Farm Family award. Together with the Division of Soil and Water Conservation, they select a farming family that exemplifies effective conservation methods. Recipients of the award have demonstrated proficiency in soil resource management, water resource management and pollution impact management.