NORWICH – The Soil and Water Conservation District named their selections for 2008 Farm of the Year and the Annual Forester Achievement Award at their annual luncheon, held recently at the Canasawacta Country Club in Norwich.

The Maple Dream Farm in Coventry, operated by Mary Klecha-Conroe, was named Farm of the Year. The dairy farm was started in 1952 by Klecha’s parents, Julia and Edward, with 12 cows. Today, the farm has a registered dairy heard of 100 cows and an additional 100 heifers and calves.

Klecha credits programs offered by the Soil and Water Conservation District for helping make that growth possible over the years, particularly the agency’s pasture management and grazing enhancement programs.

“You all do a tremendous job. You’re very dedicated,” she said, directing her comments to the Soil & Water Conservation District staff present.

“We will continue to improve as long as we are in this business,” said Klecha. She said she looks forward to continuing to work with the agency and encourages other area farmers to take advantage of the programs they offer.

Klecha explained that in the process of working with the agency, her eyes were opened to the true nature of conservation.

“After all these years as a farmer, I’m proud to say I’m also a conservationist,” she said. “I hope as parents and teachers, we continue to educate our children about conservation.”