University of Kentucky's Professor Wins Eco-Agriculture Award

By Blake Jackson

Steve Diver, farm superintendent for the Martin-Gatton College of Agriculture, Food and Environment at the University of Kentucky, has been honored with the 2024 Eco-Agriculture Achievement Award by Acres U.S.A., a leading publication in sustainable agriculture.

This prestigious award recognizes individuals who champion life-changing, ecologically sound agricultural practices.

Diver, a pioneer in the field of eco-agriculture, has dedicated his career to advancing soil health, composting systems, and organic crop production.

Diver has served on numerous advisory boards and conducted research on a wide range of topics, from biochar and hydrochar to heirloom corn and CBD hemp.

"I got my start in eco-agriculture four decades ago in the 1980s, back when it was considered a niche approach. It just made sense to me focusing on soil health, crop vitality and ecological balance," Diver said.

"My career has been driven by questions from farmers on how to adopt agro-ecological practices to raise crops and livestock with reduced synthetic inputs. Whether we call it organic, sustainable or regenerative agriculture, the principles are the same working with nature rather than against it.”

Diver's career began in Oklahoma, where he developed educational programs for farmers and gardeners and helped establish early standards for organic crop production. He emphasizes the importance of soil health and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs.

“Farmers are naturally risk-averse, which can make it challenging to adopt to ecological farming methods,” Diver said. “But over time, the results have spoken for themselves healthier soil, resilient crops and reduced reliance on synthetic inputs.”

At the UK Horticulture Research Farm, Diver oversees a diverse range of research projects, including field trials, greenhouse studies, and a Community Supported Agriculture program.

Diver expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award at the Acres U.S.A. Conference. "It's truly an honor to be recognized by an organization I've long admired," he said.

Photo Credit: university-of-kentucky