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 equipping farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners with critical data and reliable examples to guide their ethical land management decisions while they produce food and fiber.

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 Leaders 

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

SCF Board of Directors Meeting

October 30 to 31, 2024
Dundee, IL

Professional Agricultural Workers Conference

SCF's Gwen Lewis will showcase the Land Ethic Mentorship and our soil management project in Alabama and Mississippi. 

November 17 to 19, 2024
Montgomery, AL
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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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