Photo: Roy Bardole of Rippey
A long-time farm leader, an ag-vocate and an agriculture journalist from the area were recognized in late January by the Iowa Soybean Association for their accomplishments as past, current and future leaders of the soybean industry. Mike Bravard of Jefferson was presented the Monsanto Environmental Stewardship Award for his commitment to conservation and his work in championing water quality practices. As a third-generation farmer, Bravard, his wife Kathy and their four children are all actively involved in raising corn and soybean crops as well as custom-feeding hogs. Bravard uses conservation tillage, nitrogen stabilizers, plants cover crops and maintains terraces, riparian buffers and waterways. He also worked with the ISA to install a bioreactor to improve nutrient management on his farm. Cargill presented the Friend of the Iowa Soybean Farmer Award to Darcy Maulsby of Yetter. Her work as a journalist for a variety of agricultural organization as well as state, local, national and international Ag publications illustrates her passion for sharing information about where food comes from and the dedication of farm families. And long-time farm leader, Roy Bardole of Rippey, was presented with the Legacy of Leadership Award from Stine Seed Company. Bardole is a fifth-generation farmer and has dedicated many years as a leader, having served as president of the Iowa Soybean Association, a United Soybean board member and active with the American Soybean Association. Most recently, he served two years as a U.S. Soybean Export Council chairman, playing a critical role in making it a world-class export organization. Across the country and around the globe. Bardole has consistently demonstrated his commitment to serving the needs of Iowa agriculture and farmers.
