November 8, 2023
Cihlars named 2023 outstanding conservationists
Pope Soil & Water Conservation District selected the Cihlars as this year's recipients.
Excerpt from the November 2023 Pope Soil and Water Conservation District Newsletter
"Joe and Melanie Cihlar are pictured to the left along with their children Henry, Vinnie, and Oliver of Glenwood and they are the 2023 Pope County Outstanding Conservationists. They operate a 620-acre MDA Water Quality Certified farm raising corn, soybeans, wheat, forage, grapes, and cover crops.
They also own and operate Rolling Forks Vineyard employing 40 people."
"They have implemented the following conservation practices: cover crops, shelterbelt, reduced tillage, notill, 12 water quality intakes, 3 terraces, 16 water and sediment control basins, integrated pest management practices, native grass plantings, food plots, weather station, and variable rate drip irrigation.
They have worked closely with Pope SWCD and NRCS on implementing practices. They are active members in the chamber, Minnesota Grown and Grape Growers Association, Farm Bureau, and 4-H.
The Cihlars are good stewards and leaders in our community who are using conservation methods in their operation and enjoy sharing their knowledge with others. We are proud to select them as this year’s recipient for this recognition and their conservation efforts. Congratulations Cihlars!
The Pope SWCD and Pope County will recognize the Cihlars at a County Commissioner Meeting in December and they will also be recognized at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Convention in Bloomington on December 13th."
