Four local families have been selected as state environmental leaders.

Sam and Julie Spellman of Woodward, Daniel Golightly of Waukee, Jerry Peckumn of Jefferson and Craig Peterson of Scranton were all given Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Awards.

The annual honor is given by Governor Terry Branstad, Lieutenant Governor Kim Reynolds, Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey and Department of Natural Resources Director Chuck Gipp.

The awards aim to recognize the efforts of Iowa’s farmers as environmental leaders committed to healthy soils and improved water quality.

Winners were chosen by a group of conservation and agricultural groups.  Each received a certificate and a yard sign in recognition of the honor.