The Christian County Conservation District presented one of its top honors to a local farmer for his lifelong commitment to land stewardship in southern Christian County.

On Tuesday morning, Larry Brown, alongside his wife Rita, was presented with the 2026 ‘Master Conservationist’ award.

Romey Bardwell, chair of the conservation district board, told YourAgEdge.com that the organization has long looked forward to recognizing Brown with this honor.

Bardwell added that Brown was the “best of the best” when it comes to conservation work on his land.

Brown’s conservation efforts began in 1985 on his Mason Mill Road farm near Herndon. He credits his early success to the Flynn family and the USDA’s Conservation Reserve Program (CRP), which pays producers to sideline environmentally sensitive land.

His operation would grow to about 1,200 acres of protected land.

Brown has faced many challenges, but none tougher than the EF-2 tornado that struck just after 9:00 AM on May 26, 2024. With 115 MPH winds, the Memorial Day weekend storm carved a 16-mile path beginning in Trigg County, twisting trees, and leaving a trail of destruction across his land.

The recovery process continues nearly two years later.

Brown shared he was honored to be recognized by the Christian County Conservation District.

In addition to his protected acres, Brown’s farming operation includes nearly 4,000 acres of cropland leased to Randy Arnold and Dewayne Moore.