Morgan County Hosts Farm Mini-Tour

by Myra Badger, Public Relations Coordinator, Hartselle Field Office, AL

The Morgan County Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Hartselle Field Office recently invited legislators and other local officials to an educational tour on one of Morgan County’s local farms to observe first hand the many conservation practices in use. Doug Wigginton volunteered his farm located in eastern Morgan County near Somerville for the occasion.

Participating in the activities were Senator Arthur Orr, Representatives Bill Dukes and Ron Grantland, County Commissioners Stacey George and Jeff Clark, Supervisors C. A. Blevins and Doyle Whitlow, and the SWCD/Hartselle Field Office staff.

Mr. Wigginton talked about his rotational grazing system which includes freeze-proof, four-hole water troughs that provide clean well water for the cattle. Wigginton emphasized the importance of a clean water supply, which is especially beneficial during a drought season. Cross fencing is also a component of the rotational grazing system and helps Wigginton maximize the forage in his pastures. Other sites visited included well maintained ponds, a stream fenced to restrict animal free-access which helps control stream bank erosion and improves water quality, and wooded areas and wildlife buffers that were installed to enhance wildlife habitat.

Following the mini-tour, Sue Nelson, Wigginton’s sister, provided refreshments for the guests at the Wigginton home. Over homemade cookies, warm poppy seed bread, and ice-cold drinks, Representatives Dukes and Grantland lingered to learn more about the roles of the District and NRCS in assisting landowners with conservation measures to protect our natural resources and the need for continued and increased funding.

Doug Wigginton has been a Supervisor with the Morgan County SWCD since 2003. “He has been a great example of a farmer that puts into practice conservation techniques that benefit his farm and others,” stated Foy Kirkland, NRCS District Conservationist. “His many years of participating in Farm Bill programs, his knowledge of land stewardship, and his love of the land combine to make him an excellent Supervisor and an asset to the partnership,” Kirkland added.

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