The Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts, No-till on the Plains and USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Services are teaming up to host a free film night for the public on Monday December 18, 2017 at the Poncan Theatre.

Doors will open at 6 pm with the screenings beginning at 7 pm.

The films will include a look into the history of conservation in the United States with a new documentary about the founder of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, Hugh Hammond Bennet. Mr. Bennett spearheaded the efforts and funding for growers to adopt practices preventing wind erosion following the dust bowl years.

Following the Bennett film, a screening of the Discovery Channel's "Rancher, Farmer, Fisherman" film that details the work of Kansas farmers, Justin Knopf and Keith Thompson will be shown. The film debuted at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival.

Following the film, there will be a moderated panel discussion with Justin Knopf, Keith Thompson and local conservationists who will discuss the progression of conservation from the 1930's to today. The panel will provide insight on how farmers can restore soils, add biological diversity to their cropping systems and continue to be both profitable and good stewards of the land.

This event is free and open to the public. It is sponsored by Johnston Seed Company, USDA-NRCS, No-till on the Plains and the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts.