2010 Johnston County Tree Farmer

Jeff Godwin

The Johnston Soil and Water Conservation District recently recognized Jeff Godwin, of the Crocker’s Nub area, as Johnston County’s Tree Farmer of the Year.  For thirty years the District has recognized a Johnston County citizen who practices woodland management.  Jeff Godwin has planted trees to protect water quality, enhance wildlife habitat and prevent soil erosion.   Most recently, Mr. Godwin planted the majority of his farm with the native long leaf pine, North Carolina’s state tree, to establish its unique woodland ecosystem.  Mr. Godwin is employed as a firefighter with the City of Wilson.  He and his wife, Karen, have a daughter, April, who has helped plant some of the trees on the family farm.   The Godwins participate in the USDA Conservation Reserve Program, which gives incentives for planting trees