Sand County Foundation

Photo Credit: Nick Bristol

We work at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement. 

As farming intensifies to meet global demand, we face critical challenges related to soil health, water conservation, and wildlife habitat. Sand County Foundation is a national nonprofit conservation organization equipping farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners with conservation data and reliable examples to guide their ethical land management.

Advancing Conservation Research

Our team of scientists works in partnership with landowners and land managers to conduct research and demonstrations of effective agricultural conservation techniques like cover cropping, managed livestock grazing, and pollinator habitat creation that can benefit the environment and the farm's bottom line.

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Recognizing Conservation Success

We celebrate conservation achievement through the Leopold Conservation Award® which honors farmers, ranchers and forestland owners for their exceptional environmental stewardship. Their stories inspire other landowners across the nation to consider conservation opportunities on their land.

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Mentoring New Farmers and Ranchers

Our Land Ethic Mentorship Program connects historically-underserved farmers and ranchers nationwide with conservation mentors, events, and other resources.

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Give a Gift to Create Your Own Conservation Legacy 

Sand County Foundation needs your help to advance conservation-minded land management. We are grateful for your support.

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Upcoming Events

WEBINAR - Show me the data

Webinar will feature a farmer panel and research outcomes presented by Sand County Foundation and University of Minnesota research team. 

December 19 , 2024 - 12:00PM to 1:00PM

Leadership for Midwestern Watersheds

Join watershed coordinators and farmer leaders to share experiences and learn new approaches for locally driven regenerative agriculture initiatives in your watershed. 

February 27 to 28, 2025
Oglesby, IL
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“Conservation can accomplish its objectives only when it springs from impelling conviction on the part of private landowners."

- Aldo Leopold

Let's stay in touch! Subscribe to our e-newsletter to learn about successful approaches to soil, water, and wildlife habitat conservation on private land. Enter your information here.

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