The Alliance is proud to have partnered with the Natural Resources Division of the Arkansas Department of Agriculture to highlight four Northwest Arkansas farmers who are committed to conservation. Each of these farmers has a unique focus on conservation efforts, whether that be fencing off water sources, practicing rotational grazing, or fostering habitat for wildlife. Thank you to each of the farmers who welcomed us to their farm to hear their stories.
We produced three videos to highlight the work these land stewards are doing on their farms:
Jeff Marley and Scott Mattke
In this video, local farmers Jeff Marley and Scott Mattke talk about why land stewardship is more than just part of the job. It’s not only required to keep their operations running, but it’s part of being a good neighbor in our NWA community.
“You can’t get that [a good crop] without taking care of the land around you,” said Marley. When visiting his farm, Marley shared that one of the most rewarding aspects of farming is getting to appreciate the nature around you. He also recognized that you can’t achieve those great things without first taking care of the resources you have.
Stacy Cheevers
Arkansas native Stacy Cheevers has been farming here since the 90s. Stacy runs a family cattle and poultry operation alongside his wife, who comes from a multi-generational farming family, and their children, who are proudly carrying that legacy forward.
Balancing farm life while working at Beaver Water District, Stacey understands water quality from both sides of the fence. He sees firsthand how conservation practices on the farm directly protect our source drinking water.
Mashie Farm
In this video, we visited with sisters Emily Jost and Liz Mashie and learned about their grass-based regenerative cattle, lamb, and pork operation. Their parents started the farm raising cattle in the 80s, and now the sisters are continuing that legacy while also making it their own. Liz shared that her motivation to move to a regenerative management style came from enjoying the beauty of the land around her and wanting to protect that for years to come.
Learn more:
Want to see how our team can help support your land goals? Send us an email to info@beaverwatershedalliance.org or visit our landowner support page to explore our producer programs and services.
