Barry Fisher Named CCA Conservationist of the Year

March 2, 2023

Indiana CCA Barry Fisher speaks during a ceremony recognizing him as the 2022 CCA Conservationist of the Year on Jan. 31, 2023 in Washington, DC.

On Jan. 31, 2023, Barry Fisher of Greencastle, IN, was named the CCA Conservationist of the Year.

The award was announced by USDA‐NRCS Associate Chief Louis Aspey to Fisher during a ceremony hosted at the USDA in Washington, DC. The CCA Conservationist of the Year Award annually recognizes a CCA who exhibits dedication to exceptional conservation delivery and customer service and has shown to be a leader in their industry.

This year’s award recognizes Fisher, founder of Fisher Soil Health and former Central Region Leader for the NRCS National Soil Health Division, for his 40+ years of crop‐advising experience. In his career, Fisher has worked tirelessly to help farmers adopt conservation practices in Indiana and beyond. He has shared his strategies with farmers and specialists across the globe and used innovative and creative methods to break down barriers to conservation adoption.

“Mr. Fisher has demonstrated a deep commitment to protecting and enhancing our natural resources in his work with Indiana farmers,” Aspey said. “NRCS is proud to have one of its own recognized for his lasting impact in the soil conservation field. NRCS applauds Mr. Fisher’s innovative and impactful CCA work throughout his career.”

“Barry’s leadership as a conservationist, crop adviser, and mentor has left a lasting legacy for soil health and conservation,” said Jim Cudahy, CEO of the American Society of Agronomy (ASA), Crop Science Society of America (CSSA), and Soil Science Society of America (SSSA). “We are honored to recognize Barry through this award for his dedication to the promotion of sustainability through innovation and results‐driven conservation efforts.”

“Barry’s career has long been focused on working with farmers to increase conservation adoption,” said Indiana Agriculture Nutrient Alliance Executive Director Ben Wicker in his letter of recommendation for Fisher. “His work truly encompasses the spirit of this award.”

The CCA Conservationist of the Year Award is supported by a conservation and agribusiness partnership among USDA‐NRCS, Agricultural Retailers Association, ASA, CropLife America, CSSA, National Association of Conservation Districts, National Association of State Departments of Agriculture, SSSA, and The Fertilizer Institute. The award is administered by ASA. Learn more at agronomy.org/awards.

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