For 60 years, the Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District has celebrated individuals and organizations committed to protecting the county’s natural resources. The annual awards recognize a wide range of efforts, from farmers caring for the land to volunteers cleaning local waterways.
“This year, the district celebrates its 60th anniversary, highlighting the lasting impact of dedicated conservationists in our community,” said Wake County Commissioner Vickie Adamson. “Their hard work and commitment continue to protect our natural resources for generations to come.”
This year, six individuals and two organizations have been recognized across five categories.
Farm Family of the Year – Alan and Susan Jones
The 2025 Farm Family of the Year Award goes to Alan and Susan Jones. Alan and Susan met while studying Wildlife Management at Haywood Technical Institute, sharing a dream of owning a farm, though they never expected it would be in Wake County. Committed to conservation, they enrolled their land in the Forest Stewardship Program and the Wake County Voluntary Agricultural District Program, showcasing their dedication to soil and water conservation, wildlife, recreation and preserving agricultural land. Through practices like prescribed burning, selective thinning, native plant restoration, pollinator habitats, tree planting and brush management, they’ve created diverse habitats that support quail, wild turkey, flying squirrels, deer, songbirds and native pollinators.
Patrick H. Johnson Farmland Preservation Award – Walton Farm and T.R. Johnson Farm
This year’s Farmland Preservation Award honors Walton Farm and T.R. Johnson Farm, both permanently protected through conservation easements made possible by partnerships with the landowners, Triangle Land Conservancy and the Wake County Soil and Water Conservation District Farmland Preservation Program.
Walton Farm, a 40-acre property in Raleigh, features two headwater streams, supports small-scale livestock like goats, and has nearly 90% of its soils classified as prime or of statewide importance.
T.R. Johnson Farm, a 32-acre farm in eastern Wake County, includes pastures, hardwood forest, a pond and over 2,000 feet of stream. It supports a small sheep operation and has about 96% of its soils classified as prime or of statewide importance.
B.C. Raynor Friend of the District Award – Heidelberg Materials
The B.C. Raynor Friend of the District Award honors individuals, businesses and organizations for their exceptional contributions to Wake Soil and Water Conservation District programs. This year’s award goes to Heidelberg Materials, a valued partner since 2011.
Heidelberg Materials has been a cornerstone of Wake County Big Sweep, providing staff support, meals and event logistics to ensure smooth cleanups. Their generous donation of watercraft equipment including a custom caged trailer for storage and transport, six canoes, ten kayaks, paddles, life vests and branded trailer signage strengthens our operations and will support our work for years to come.
Big Sweep Partner of the Year Award – City of Raleigh Greenway Maintenance Team
Wake County Big Sweep is proud to announce the City of Raleigh Greenway Maintenance Team as our 2025 Big Sweep Partner of the Year, recognizing their outstanding commitment, collaboration and support in keeping our creeks and greenways clean and safe for all.
For several years, the Greenway Maintenance Team has gone above and beyond in their efforts to assist Wake County Big Sweep volunteers as they clean up local waterways. Their team ensures that volunteers can safely access the creeks by proactively removing downed trees, clearing debris, properly disposing of trash and scouting new routes in advance of cleanups.
Big Sweep Outstanding Volunteer Award – Glen Neff and Kathleen Neff
This year’s Outstanding Volunteer Award is presented to Kathleen Neff and Glen Neff for their dedication and remarkable service to the Wake County Big Sweep program.
Kathleen and Glen have been active and enthusiastic participants in Big Sweep events for several years. Their consistent presence, hard work and positive energy have made a lasting impact not only on the natural areas they help clean, but also on the volunteers around them.
The Neffs’ ongoing commitment to giving back makes them standout volunteers. Their efforts are a powerful reminder that lasting change starts with individuals willing to step up, pitch in and inspire others to do the same.
