Joe and Melanie Cihlar were honored recently at the Pope County Board meeting. The Cihlars were named 2023 Pope County Outstanding Conservationists. In the front row from left are: Keith Nygaard (Pope SWCD), Holly Kovarik (Pope SWCD), Joe Cihlar, Melanie Cihlar, Larry Lindor (Commissioner and Cole Montgomery (NRCS). In the back row from left are: Randy Pederson (Pope SWCD), D. Gary Reents (Pope SWCD), Tom Talle (Pope SWCD), Randy Mitteness (Pope SWCD), Paul Wildman (Commissioner), Paul Gremmels (Commissioner), Paul Gerde (Commissioner) and Gordy Wagner (Commissioner).

Joe and Melanie Cihlar, along with their children Henry, Vinnie, and Oliver of Glenwood, 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.

The Cihlars have implemented the following conservation practices: cover crops, shelterbelt, reduced tillage, no-till, 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 Natural Resources Conservation Service (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!” it was stated by the Pope Soil and Water Conservation District. 

The Pope SWCD and Pope County recognized the Cihlars at Tuesday’s Pope County Commissioners’ meeting and they were also recognized at the Minnesota Association of Soil and Water Conservation District Convention in Bloomington on December 13.