Billie and Harley Craven, Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) producers in Newton County, Mississippi, let their love for the Earth speak for them. A lot of effort and time is utilized in making sure everything is just as it should be. Craven is quoted as saying "I want to leave the land a little bit better than I found it." Their concern for the soil, environment, and trees is evident as you tour their land

They have four CRP contracts totaling 255 acres of trees. Their trees have been thinned so that they can benefit from the most sunlight and reach their maximum growing potential. Fire lanes are neatly manicured for optimum viewing as you drive around the entire acreage. The most unique aspect of the Craven's CRP is the 75 or so bee hives beneath the trees. The bee hives are sheltered and use the rosin from the pines to maintain their homes.

Each year, the Cravens open their tree farm to the local youth by hosting a field day for students from neighboring schools. They feel this also enhances the CRP by educating the future generations on the importance of good land stewardship and environmental protection. Their most recent field day included over 130 students. USDA's Farm Service Agency and Natural Resource Conservation Service participated in the memorable and informative event.

The Cravens think CRP is one of the greatest things that has happened for the local farmers and the environment. What a spectacular way to protect the soil, environment, and enjoy nature. Theirs is truly a harmonious showing of man, land, and nature in its most beautiful form.

Beehives and CRP trees co-habitat on the Craven farm.

Bees use the rosin from pine trees planted on the Craven farm.

Billie and Harley Craven have 225 acres devoted to trees under CRP contract.

Billie and Harley Craven on their tree farm in Newton, MS.