Tennessee farmer and U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol grower Bob Walker of Walker Farms has been named Field to Market’s 2024 Farmer of the Year for his decades-long commitment to sustainable agriculture and leadership in conservation.
Bob, who co-owns Walker Farms in Yum Yum, Tennessee, with his brother, has been a pioneer in practices like no-till farming, cover crops, and precision agriculture – long before they became mainstream. His dedication to soil health, water efficiency, and reducing nutrient runoff showcases the power of innovation in farming.
As Bob puts it:
“I want my kids and grandkids to inherit land that’s better than what I came into. When you make the soil happy, it’s alive. It isn’t just dirt anymore.”
As a Protocol grower, Bob uses tools like the Fieldprint Calculator to measure progress, refine practices, and share his sustainability story with customers and the broader community. His efforts have yielded incredible results:
- 40% reduction in fertilizer use over the past 20 years
- Improved yields and soil health through tailored, sustainable farming methods
Beyond his farm, Bob is a tireless advocate for U.S. cotton, sharing his knowledge at conferences, collaborating with other growers, and serving on national boards to advance the industry.
Congratulations, Bob, on this well-deserved recognition! Your leadership is an inspiration to farmers everywhere.
