The Bouska sisters were recently honored as Winneshiek County Pheasants Forever Chapter Habitat Steward of the Year — congratulations!

An equal honor, their conservation partner Brian Sauer with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources has dubbed them “Team Habitat.”

From left to right, sisters Sally McCoy, Carol Bouska, Peg Bouska and Ann Novak

In his remarks at the award presentation, Brian shared:

“This year we are honoring the Bouska sisters of Highland Farm. The farms are located in southeast Winneshiek County in Jackson Township and just across the border in Chickasaw County. This active working farm in rural Protivin was formerly operated by their parents, Ed and Elmarie Bouska. It is now best described as being managed by the partnership of the Four Bouska Sisters (Peg, Carol, Sally, and Ann) also known as Team Habitat.

Peg Bouska (left) with Brian Sauer (right), Private Lands Wildlife Technician with the Iowa DNR

The farm’s focus is on regenerative agriculture, education and strategically placed wildlife habitat. Some highlights include:

• 37 acres of prairie strips

• 19 acres of pollinator habitat

• 10 acres of shelterbelt winter cover

• 6 acres of wetlands and buffer

• 12 acres of filter strips

• And this past year 127 acres of cover crops!”

From left to right, Brian Sauer, Carol Bouska and Peg Bouska at the award ceremony

Read more about the Bouska sisters and their progress at Highland Farm here.