Recognizing Excellence: USPOULTRY Family Farm Environmental Award Winners
The U.S. Poultry & Egg Association (USPOULTRY) recently honored three outstanding poultry farms with the Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award at the 2025 International Production & Processing Expo. This prestigious award recognizes family farmers who demonstrate exceptional environmental stewardship in poultry and egg production.
Chairman Mikell Fries of Claxton Poultry Farms commended the winners, stating, “It is an honor to celebrate the outstanding job these family farms do in being good stewards of their land. Our industry could not continue to perform and prosper without taking proper care of our natural resources. These three winners are to be commended for their efforts.”
Applicants were evaluated in various categories such as litter management, nutrient management planning, community involvement, wildlife enhancement techniques, innovative nutrient management techniques, and participation in education or outreach programs. A team of environmental professionals from universities, regulatory agencies, and poultry associations reviewed applications and conducted farm visits to select the winners.
2025 Award Winners:
- State Poultry Association Nomination Winner: Holden Farms, Obion County, Tennessee
- Nominated by the Tennessee Poultry Association, Kris and Rebecca Holden demonstrated exemplary environmental practices.
- South Central Region Winner: Lakeview Poultry LLC, Versailles, Missouri
- Nominated by Cargill, Kenneth and Elaine Nolt were recognized for their outstanding efforts in environmental stewardship.
- Southwest Region Winner: MBK Farms, Colcord, Oklahoma
- Keith and Jerri Mitchell, nominated by Cargill, showcased innovative environmental practices on their farm.
In addition to the winners, one farm was recognized as a finalist:
- South Central Region Finalist: Gabel Farm, Galena, Missouri
- Norbert and Susan Gabel, nominated by Cargill, were applauded for their commitment to environmental sustainability.
Congratulations to all the winners and finalists of the USPOULTRY Family Farm Environmental Excellence Award for their dedication to environmental stewardship in the poultry industry.
