Clay County Soil and Water Conservation District
Cooperator Spotlight
Robert Brejcha, District Resource Conservationist, reading a resolution prepared by Senator Luann Ridgeway for Dave Fulton and his wife Jo. The Fultons were recognized at the district's Annual Meeting for being chosen as the 2008 Conservationist of the Year.
The Fultons bought 80 acres back in 1970 and settled there with their two children. Then in 1997 they bought an adjoining 100 acres. By looking at a 1970 aerial photo, one can see how eroded the property was. They converted the fescue to alfalfa, brome and orchard grass. They also have 15 acres of tall prairie grass.
The acreage the Fultons bought in 1997 also included a dilapidated 1890s farmhouse. They have restored it to its original glory and is now the Stonehaven Guest House, a bed and breakfast that sleeps up to eight people. Guests can enjoy catch-and-release fishing, hayrides, cookouts and three miles of walking trails the Fultons have built and maintained.
"Our philosophy on the land and house is that God put us on this Earth," Dave Fulton said. "We want to leave it in better shape than when we got it."
