As a recently retired West Virginia beef and dairy
farmer, Joe Gumm understands the importance of
teamwork, education and being a true steward of
agricultural land. He has dedicated his life to working
hard, both personally and professionally, to keep
agricultural lands protected and growing in West Virginia.
“My focus has always been on conservation as it’s
important not only to use our natural resources, but to
preserve them as well,” Gumm said. “These hillsides in
West Virginia grow really good grass and calves because
of it. Our soil and water are so important. I take pride
participating in education programs and on different
committees. There are so many ways we can accomplish
conservation and I take personal ownership in spreading
the word to others. Examples include installing livestock
watering systems and pasture division fences, improve
animal performance, improve management capacity and
reduce agricultural impacts on the water.”
Gumm is well-known to many in the West Virginia
agricultural community. He works as an advocate for
soil and water resources by serving the Tygarts Valley
Conservation District (TVCD) while being an active
member of state agriculture committees and councils.
During his lifetime, Gumm has been the Chairman of
the TVCD board, WV Association of Conservation
Districts (WVACD) board member, Chairman of
the WVACD’s Legislative Committee, Appalachian
Grazing Conference committee member, Envirothon
committee member, Grassland Steering Committee
member, WV Forage and Grassland Council member
and National Association of Conservation Districts
grassland committee member.
Like Gumm, most West Virginia agricultural
producers do not view farming as a job, but rather as a
way of life. Whether proudly handed down from one
generation to another, or a veteran returning home after
serving their country, those recently retired or looking
for a career change or fresh out of school, farming
is a calling. Becoming a farmer does not require an
agricultural background to be successful. Farmers come
from all backgrounds, ages, and education levels. Being
a farmer requires planning, hard work and dedication.
It is these individuals who choose to rise early each
morning to greet the challenges that lie ahead with vigor
that provide food, fiber and fuel nationwide.
For over 80 years, the Natural Resources
Conservation Services (NRCS) has been assisting
landowners and producers with raising livestock,
growing crops and conserving wildlife habitat. As the
lead agency for conservation under the U.S. Department
of Agriculture, NRCS is dedicated to “Helping people
help the land.” It is not just a motto, it is a way of life for
employees committed to enhancing farming operations
through conservation. NRCS services are free to private
landowners and producers with agricultural-purposed
land. The nature of the relationship is unique when it
comes to government agencies because the assistance
provided is all voluntary. No one is required to work
with NRCS, but staff are always available to assist when
farmers seek their expertise.
What does this mean to West Virginia farmers?
There is a team of knowledgeable, friendly people with
expert advice that can help protect your soil, water,
energy, air, animals and plant life. NRCS partners with
state, local and non-government agencies to provide
science-based support to solve tough conservation issues
on private lands.
“We can all do more to better use our natural
resources, farmers included,” Gumm said. “I worked
with NRCS on my property and they have a variety of
programs and staff to assist. I cannot forget the partners
that work with NRCS including the West Virginia
Conservation Agency, Conservation Districts and
WVU Extension Service to provide information to help
achieve conservation goals. If more private landowners
would attend the local agricultural meetings they could
learn about the opportunities available through all
agencies involved.”
‘Grass… the other natural resource,’ is a favorite
slogan frequently expressed by Gumm. “I’ve learned to
listen to soil as each field or farm is different,” Gumm
said. “I observed what my soil wanted to grow, which
was orchardgrass. Orchardgrass kept growing back
so instead of trying to change it, I let it grow. I let the
soil raise what it wants as long as the soil is healthy
underneath.” NRCS staff can help you choose the species
of grass which will thrive in your management system.
How does a land user request assistance? Simply
call or visit one of the 30 field offices located across the
state. Once contact is made, an NRCS Conservationist
West Virginia Farm Bureau News 23