Alone it cannot be done. That statement conveys the partnership effort that is required to make the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) work. In Morrow County, three key individuals have worked together and made a move that is worth telling about.

Terry Nicholson, a former Morrow County Farm Service Agency (FSA) County Executive Director, had the vision. The vision was for the largest farmer in the Upper Big Walnut Watershed to lead enrollment in the Ohio Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP) that was announced in the summer of 2002. This vision was transformed into a proposal which was made to Morrow County landowner Jack Fishburn, who grasped the idea immediately. The proposal became reality with the efforts of farm manager Ron Young. The result was over 75 acres of filter strips enrolled along watercourses in southern Morrow County that eventually spill into the Hoover Reservoir and provide drinking water to the city of Columbus, Ohio.

Terry explained, "Jack did not hesitate when I approached him about enrolling into the Upper Big Walnut CREP. It was amazing to see a producer be willing to participate so quickly! Many times, producers have to 'mull it' over before committing to a long term CRP agreement." When asked why he acted so quickly, Jack responded, "It was the right thing to do and it made economic sense."

The trio recently reunited for a meeting to discuss successes and potential shortcomings of the program. Increased wildlife habitat, straightening field borders, and guaranteed income were included in the list of benefits. On the flip side, they discussed the negative correlation with warm season grasses because of their initial slow growth and thin stand compared to typical hay type grasses. However, Ron commented, "Every year it gets better." Both Ron and Jack agreed that it takes patience, not only when seeding warm season grasses, but also for their long term care.

The story doesn't end there. While they haven't planted any more filter strips, Jack and Ron continue to install waterways on the farms that Fishburn Farms own and operate, as well as planting wildlife grasses in areas they feel the grasses will prove beneficial. Other Morrow County producers continue to work with the staff of the FSA and Natural Resources Conservation Service to enroll conservation practices in the county. "Alone it cannot be done" has become a resounding theme in Morrow County!

Terry Nicholson, FSA District Director; Ron Young, farm manager of Fishburn Farms; and Jack Fishburn along side one of the numerous filter strips the team established.