Page 6 - Annual meeting edition

2018 Wildlife Habitat Conservation Award - Beaver Valley Farms LLC

Beaver Valley Farms LLC is made up of several
generations of the Gates Family. Just south of the
original homestead the family converted a heavily
terraced marginal farm field into a beautiful piece
of land that consists of native grasses and wild-
flowers.

Their intention was to create habitat for upland
birds, turkey, deer and pollinators by utilizing
wildflowers that used to be common in this area.
In addition to the NRCS recommended grass and
wildflower blend, they were inspired to go above
and beyond, adding additional wildflower species.
“We have a trust from the Lord to improve the land and leave it better than we found it”
says Jack Gates

Over the years the family has been able to return the land to a natural state. They started with
10 acres adjacent to this a few years prior. Returning marginal farm ground back to native grass
has benefited a nearby pond that holds many fond memories for the family.
The combination of food sources in the species planted and the pond has led to an increase in
wildlife. It will also benefit the family’s plan
for more recreation time.

This grass/wildflower mix was planted in
February of 2017. Following NRCS recom-
mendations the field was mowed in July
2017. You can tell things were done just
right as the area looks very mature in such a
short timeframe. The future plan for the
grass is to begin to graze lightly after the
third growing season.

Congratulations Beaver Valley Farms for
your hard work and dedication to improving
the wildlife habitat in Harper County.