Henes family recognized as WCCD’s 2024 Conservation Farmers of the Year
Henes Family. Photo credit: Washtenaw County Conservation District.
by Sara Swanson
A Manchester area family has been recognized for their conservation work and is being awarded the 2024 Walter Wolfgang Memorial Conservation Farmer of the Year Award by the Washtenaw County Conservation District (WCCD). The Walter Wolfgang Memorial Conservation Farmer of the Year Award is presented to outstanding conservation farmers in Washtenaw County, selected by the District Board of Directors. It was established in 1977, in memory of Walter Wolfgang, a Director on the first Board of Directors of the Washtenaw County Conservation District, when it was organized in 1948. Prior to 1977 it was known as the Conservation Farmer of the Year Award.
From the Washtenaw County Conservation District:
Situated on Austin Road near Bridgewater is H&H Harvest owned and operated by the Henes family, Brandon, Melissa, and their daughters, Mackenzie and Samantha. Working around 250 acres, the farm is entering its fifth generation and is diversified in what it grows and raises. In addition to commodity row crops (corn–soybeans–wheat), the Henes family raises beef cattle, hogs, and egg-laying chickens. Like many farms, it takes more than any one person for H&H Harvest to operate. Melissa helps Brandon manage the field crops and general operations, while Mackenzie and Samantha (both involved in 4-H) help raise the animals and assist wherever they can. Without everyone’s involvement, it would simply be a different operation.
When it comes to employing conservation on the farm, H&H Harvest practices no-till on their beans and wheat crops, preventing loss of soil from erosion while also leaving standing cornstalks to help cover the soil. They’ve established a pollinator habitat and are beginning to manage their forestland as well. Soil and tissue sampling are in use to help guide their nutrient application regiment and has resulted in more precise applications.
The goals of regenerating the soil and increasing microbial activity on their farm have encouraged H&H Harvest to try different farming methods and seek assistance from WCCD when necessary. Currently, the Henes’ are experimenting with cover crops, not only figuring out the right species to make the most impact on their ground but honing in on the method that provides the most benefit. In fact, H&H Harvest had cover crops applied three different ways this season: by drilling it in, flying it on with a plane and, while hosting the Washtenaw County Field Day this past September, having drones fly it on. It may take more than one season to decide on which method is preferred, but the Henes family continues to add tools to their farmer toolbox and WCCD is excited to continue working with them on their journey.
Congratulations, Henes family!
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