Meyer receives the Spokane Excellence in Agriculture Award | Washington

Ty Meyer, Production Manager for the Spokane Conservation District, received the Excellence in Agriculture Award for his work in helping growers with their environmental efforts.

“It is a great honor to be included in the thought of receiving such an award,” Meyer told Capital Press. “There are so many people in this region who are doing some pretty tremendous things in agriculture. That means a lot. It was just a great honor to be considered.”

Meyer received the award during the Spokane Ag Show, which was held virtually February 23-24.

“(Meyer and this team) are doing all we can to promote soil protection, water quality and agriculture and continue to develop sustainable production practices,” said Tim Cobb, chairman of the awards committee, in a video presentation.

Meyer said his goal is to make farmers more successful while implementing conservation practices.

“I think the two can exist together,” he said. “We, on the other hand, need to be comfortable knowing there is a conservation benefit coming from it, but it has to be profitable on the farm first. I am not going to ask anyone to do anything on the farm that threatens their economy and viability.”

Previously, Meyer was also the executive director of the Pacific Northwest Direct Seed Association. He is now an ex officio member.

He grew up on a farm in Colton, Washington, that grew wheat, canola, and chickpeas. He graduated from Washington State University with a degree in Agriculture.

Meyer joined the nature reserve 17 years ago.

“We are continuing to work on some of what I believe to be quite forward-looking practices in Production AG, related to soil health, cover crop and possibly the transition to more regenerative Ag practices,” he said.

Rebuilding soil health is the greatest need, said Meyer. He believes no-till systems will be at the forefront of carbon sequestration efforts.

“The focus is not just nationwide, but worldwide,” he said.

The award is given to a company or individual who has made a significant contribution to agriculture in the north-west of the country. The award committee takes into account contributions to innovation, economic and environmental responsibility, positive effects as well as the awareness and reach of the industry.