Nathan and Angie Walter of Westport, Minnesota were selected as the 2021 Pope County Outstanding Conservationists. They have two children Laureen and Levi and they attend Osakis school. They operate a 390-acre organic dairy farm raising corn, hay, rye, barley, oats, and cover crops for use on the farm. They milk 100 Guernsey/Red Holstein/Norwegian cross cows, raise 50 heifers, 20 calves, broiler chickens, and laying hens.
The Walters have implemented many conservation practices including: an ag waste facility, nutrient management plan, shelterbelt, cover crops, grazing plan, reduced tillage, no-till, and soil health practices. The operation is also certified through the Minnesota Department of Agriculture Water Quality Certification Program.
The Walters are active members in their community, Sustainable Farming Association, Organic Valley, 4-H, and serve in leadership roles in these organizations. They are mentors for the Sustainable Farming Association Dairy Grazing Apprenticeship program. The Walter’s are a premier example of regenerative agriculture and the Pope SWCD was proud to select them as this year’s Outstanding Conservationists.
The Walters will be honored by Pope County and Pope SWCD later this year at a Commissioner’s meeting. They will also be recognized at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District’s Annual Convention on December 14, 2021 in Bloomington. Congratulations Walter Family!
