Cannon Valley Ranch named Goodhue County Soil and Water Conservation Farm of the Year; 4‑H reports steady fair participation

The Goodhue County Soil and Water Conservation District presented its annual Conservation Farm of the Year award to Bruce and Leanne Waltham of Cannon Valley Ranch during a county meeting held at the fairgrounds.

Zach Wagner, representing the Soil and Water Conservation District, described the Wathams’ operation — a roughly 320‑acre beef operation in the Belgrade watershed — and said the family implemented rotational grazing and other conservation practices after purchasing the property in 2001. Wagner noted the ranch hosts the district’s sixth‑grade conservation field day and that the family’s approach aims to improve soil organic matter, water infiltration and long‑term soil health. A plaque was presented to the Wathams.

Bruce and Leanne Waltham spoke briefly about including their sons, Caleb and Aaron, in the operation and about their direct‑to‑consumer meat marketing.

Separately, 4‑H staff provided an update on fair participation and youth programs. Extension educators reported 1,435 entries at the fair this year, including 162 head of beef cattle, 97 dairy cattle, 186 goats, 98 rabbits, 106 sheep, 141 swine and about 148 poultry entries. Staff thanked Fair Board volunteers and the Friends of the Fair for assistance with new barns and improved animal facilities.

Extension staff also highlighted local recipients of the Minnesota State Fair Bell Grant and a mentoring opportunity: Anna Bemnick, a local 4‑H member who said she received the $500 Bell Grant as a first‑time state fair participant in 2022 and later served as a mentor for new participants.

Speakers emphasized the educational role of 4‑H at the fair and praised judges who provide feedback to youth.