It has been often stated that one of our most precious natural resources is the land, and it should be used and cared for as stated in ancient medical tradition – 'First, do no harm.' This is the philosophy of Ash Grove, Mo., farmer, Gayer Dixon. “We must preserve our farm lands for future generations,” he said with heartfelt sincerity. Due to urban development and limited government regulations our priceless farms are disappearing. Conservation and protection of our nation’s farmlands should be of the utmost importance to everyone.
For years Gayer discussed the pros and cons with friends and family of working with the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS) – Soil and Water Conservation Program (SWCP). But it wasn't until the 2006 drought when all Gayer's ponds were drying up that he decided to take a closer look at what the NRSC had to offer.
Gayer commented, “No one could remember such severe drought conditions. Although, we were fortunate to have a stream to water our cattle, I know this was not the best solution for our farm or my neighbor’s downstream.”
“My yields are just as good as the yields people get who use conventional farming practices, and “I feel mine are a bit better now that I have implemented these conservation practices,” he explained. Federal and State cost-share programs have helped him install conservation practices and make the switch to these new farming practices.
After the drought Gayer applied and received a grant to build a well. In addition to the well he built three-quarters of mile of pipeline so he would be able to add supplementary waterers. The stipulations were strict, but having frost free waterers is a nice enhancement and improved the value of the land.
In 2007 Gayer started yet another project with the help of Greene County NRCS office. The project is to help control soil erosion along a stream found on the Dixon’s farm. This 15 year project included the planting 1,800 trees on 47 acres along the stream bed and requires annual maintenance to keep the under brush under control as well as annual inspection by the NRCS. “Although we’re just two years into the project we’re already see promising results,” he said.
After several years of hard work and diligence, the cattle farmland owned and operated by Gayer Dixon has only been improved. Being a third generation steward of the family farm and running an impressive cattle business.
A very proud moment for the Dixon family was in 2009 when Gayer Dixon was awarded Greene County Cooperator Farmer of the year by the Greene County Soil and Water Conservation District. The award is designed to recognize the excellent work he has done with the projects and fulfilling the project requirements. The award also acknowledges those farmers who combine sustainable environment practices with profitable production.
One does not have to look hard to see the pride and diligent labor in the improvements seen in the Dixons’ land.
