Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award®. 

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Kentucky, the $10,000 award is presented with the Kentucky Agricultural Council and Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. 

Dave Tribbett Receives Maryland Leopold Conservation Award

Dave Tribbett has been selected as the 2025 recipient of the Maryland Leopold Conservation Award®. 

The $10,000 award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Tribbett was presented with the Maryland Leopold Conservation Award at the Maryland Farm Bureau’s Annual Convention on December 8. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Maryland the award is presented with The Campbell Foundation, Maryland Association of Conservation Districts, and Maryland Farm Bureau Inc.

Landon and Anne Plagge Receive Iowa Leopold Conservation Award

Landon and Anne Plagge of Latimer have been selected as the 2025 Iowa Leopold Conservation Award^® recipients.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

The Plagges who grow 4,000 acres of corn, soybeans, and oats in Franklin County, were presented with the award at The Big Soil Health Event on Dec. 8.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Iowa, the award is presented with Conservation Districts of Iowa and Practical Farmers of Iowa.

Stemple Creek Ranch Receives California Leopold Conservation Award

Stemple Creek Ranch of Tomales is the 2025 California Leopold Conservation Award® recipient.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Loren and Lisa Poncia, owners of Stemple Creek Ranch, were presented with the award during the California Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting on December 8. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In California, the award is presented with Sustainable Conservation and the California Farm Bureau Federation. 

Jim Currie Receives Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award

Jim Currie has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. Currie lives in Pass Christian and owns forestland near Picayune in Hancock County. 

The $10,000 award was presented at the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Mississippi the award is presented with the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation. 

Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award®.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Nebraska, the $10,000 award is presented with Cargill, Nebraska Cattlemen, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust. 

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. 

Illinois Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award®. 

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Illinois the award is presented with IL Corn and the Illinois Soybean Association.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage. 

South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are being accepted for the 2026 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®. 

The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In South Dakota, the award is presented with the South Dakota Grassland Coalition and a new partner, the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition

Tom Cotter Receives Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award

Tom Cotter of Austin is the recipient of the 2025 Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Cotter, who owns and operates Cotter Farms, was presented with the $10,000 award at the Premier Soil Health Event in Mankato.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Minnesota, the $10,000 award is presented with state partners Minnesota Soil Health Coalition and Soil Regen.

Kevin Wiltse Family Receives Kansas Leopold Conservation Award

The Kevin Wiltse family has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Kevin Wiltse and his wife Amanda and their three children farm with his mother. Wiltse Family Farms consists of native range and dryland cropland near Timken. They were presented with the $10,000 award at the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Convention.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Kansas the award is presented with the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, Kansas Farm Bureau, and the Ranchland Trust of Kansas.

Pearson Ranch Receives Utah Leopold Conservation Award

Pearson Ranch of Minersville has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Utah Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Pearson Ranch’s owners, Tammy Pearson, Jetta Robinson, and Seth Davie, were presented with the award at the Utah Farm Bureau’s Annual Meeting. They receive $10,000 for being selected.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Utah the award is presented with Utah Farm Bureau Federation, Western AgCredit, and Utah Cattlemen’s Association.  

Colorado Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Colorado Leopold Conservation Award®.

The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Colorado, the award is presented with the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, American AgCredit, CoBank, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, and Premier Farm Credit. 

Montana Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Applicants

Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Montana Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Montana, the award is presented with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Montana Rangeland Resources Program. 

Michael Berg Receives Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award

Michael E. Berg of Blanchardville has been selected as the 2025 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award^® recipient.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Berg, a Lafayette County farmer, was revealed as the award recipient at the November 13 meeting of the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection in Madison. He will be formally presented with the award at the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation’s Annual Meeting on December 7. 

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Wisconsin the award is presented with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

Grayhouse Farms Receives Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award

Grayhouse Farms is the recipient of the 2025 Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Jimmy Gray, an owner and operator of Grayhouse Farms in Stony Point, North Carolina was presented with the $10,000 award at an on-farm presentation.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In the Carolinas the award is presented annually with Carolina Farm Trust.

Viramontes Farms Receives New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award

Viramontes Farms of Deming has been selected as the New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award^® recipient.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Ray and Cole Viramontes, who own and operate Viramontes Farms in Luna County, were presented with the award at the New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau’s Annual Meeting.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 28 states. In New Mexico, the award is presented with New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, and Quivira Coalition.

Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Oklahoma, the award is presented with Noble Research Institute, Oklahoma Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, ITC Great Plains, Oklahoma Conservation Commission, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Finalists Selected for Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Pennsylvania, the award is presented with The Heinz Endowments, Horizon Farm Credit, and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

Maddocks to Receive North Dakota Leopold Conservation Award

The Brian and Vicki Maddock family has been selected as the recipients of the 2025 North Dakota Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

The Maddock family’s 4,000-acre ranch is in the heart of the Drift Prairie physiographic region of northeastern North Dakota. They will be presented with the $10,000 award in December.

Utah Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Utah Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

California Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Three finalists have been selected for the 2025 California Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In California, the $10,000 award is presented with Sustainable Conservation and the California Farm Bureau Federation

Samuel Kwakye Accepted into an International Emerging Leader Program

Samuel Kwakye has been accepted into the 2026 class of the Soil and Water Conservation Society’s (SWCS) Emerging Leaders Program.

Kwakye is an Agricultural Field Data Scientist for Sand County Foundation, a national nonprofit that works at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement. He supports Sand County Foundation’s conservation team in evaluating environmental outcomes resulting from the adoption of regenerative and soil health management.

SWCS, recognized as the premier international organization for professionals shaping the future of natural resource conservation, has chosen Kwakye for his outstanding commitment to the science and art of conservation. He will join a group of up-and-coming leaders in conservation that are spread across several countries and disciplines.

Sweetland Farm of Vermont Receives New England Leopold Conservation Award

Sweetland Farm of Norwich, Vermont has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 New England Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Norah Lake, who owns and operates Sweetland Farm, was presented with the award during an on-farm presentation. She receives $10,000 for being selected.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In New England the award is presented with New England Forestry Foundation and American Farmland Trust-New England.

Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Wisconsin the $10,000 award is presented with state partners: Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.

Oechsner Farms Receives New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award

Oechsner Farms of Newfield has been selected for the New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Thor Oechsner and his wife Rachel Lodder, who own and operate Oechsner Farms, were presented with the award at a special ceremony on September 12.

Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Mississippi the $10,000 award is presented with the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.

Study Maps Path to Cleaner Water in Lake Michigan Basin

Our study, done in partnership with General Mills, Inc., resulted in a peer-reviewed journal article and interactive Story-Map that offers a roadmap for improving water quality in the Lake Michigan basin. It reveals the need for both the widespread adoption of "regenerative agriculture” practices and critical collective investment well beyond current levels.

Finalists Selected for Maryland Leopold Conservation Award

Two finalists have been selected for the 2025 Maryland Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Maryland, the $10,000 award is presented with state partners: The Campbell Foundation, Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts, and Maryland Farm Bureau Inc.

Dan Sanderson Receives Illinois Leopold Conservation Award

Dan Sanderson is the recipient of the 2025 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Dan Sanderson, a farmer from Clare in DeKalb County, was presented with the award at the Illinois Farm Progress Days on Aug. 27. He receives $10,000 for being selected.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Illinois the award is presented annually with IL Corn and Illinois Soybean Association.

Four Finalists Selected for Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Minnesota, the $10,000 award is presented with state partners: Minnesota Soil Health Coalition and Soil Regen.

Three Finalists Vie for Iowa Leopold Conservation Award

Three finalists have been selected for the 2025 Iowa Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Iowa, the $10,000 award is presented with state partners: Conservation Districts of Iowa and Practical Farmers of Iowa.

Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Two finalists have been selected for the 2025 Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award^®.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the prestigious award is presented in 28 states to farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water, and wildlife habitat in their care.

The award is named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac”, Leopold advocated for an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

In North Carolina and South Carolina the award is presented annually by Sand County Foundation, national sponsor American Farmland Trust, and regional partners: Carolina Farm Trust and U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service of North Carolina and South Carolina.

Thomas Herefords to Receive Montana Leopold Conservation Award

Thomas Herefords of Gold Creek has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Montana Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Thomas Herefords, owned by Bruce and Tammy Thomas, and Richard and Shirley Thomas, will be presented with the award at the Montana Farm Bureau Annual Convention in November. They receive $10,000 for being selected.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Montana the award is presented annually with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Montana Rangeland Resources Program.

Three Finalists Selected for New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award

Three finalists have been selected for the 2025 New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In New Mexico, the award is presented with New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, and Quivira Coalition.

Finalists Selected for New England Leopold Conservation Award

Four finalists have been selected for the 2025 New England Leopold Conservation Award.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 28 states. In New England the $10,000 award is presented with New England Forestry Foundation, and American Farmland Trust-New England.

John and Randy Seymour Receive Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award

John and Randy Seymour of Upton have been selected as the are the recipients of the 2025 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

John and Randy Seymour, who own Riders Mill Farms and Roundstone Native Seed LLC, were presented with the award at the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Convention on August 5. Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year

Sand County Foundation Awards Grants to Farmer-led Watershed Groups

Sand County Foundation has announced the recipients of its Farmer-Led Fund for Watershed Improvement.

The Wisconsin-based national nonprofit conservation organization is awarding $680,000 to nine farmer-led groups throughout Wisconsin to fund locally designed incentives and technical assistance for farmers within select watersheds.

Kansas Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Two finalists have been selected for the 2025 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®. The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Kansas the $10,000 award is presented with Kansas Association of Conservation Districts and Ranchland Trust of Kansas.

Four Finalists Selected for the 2025 New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award

Four farm families have been selected as finalists for New York's AEM-Leopold Conservation Award. 

The award honors farmers and forestland owners, along with their nominating Soil and Water Conservation District who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land. 

Montana Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Three finalists have been selected for the 2025 Montana Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award Finalists Selected

Three finalists have been selected for the 2025 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Rod Snyder Joins Sand County Foundation Board

Rod Snyder of West Virginia has joined the board of directors of the Sand County Foundation, a national nonprofit working at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement.

Snyder is a principal and founder of Junction Strategies, a consulting firm specializing in agriculture, climate, and environmental policy, as well as supply chain sustainability initiatives.

Bob Perschel Joins Sand County Foundation Board

Bob Perschel of Massachusetts has joined the board of directors of the Sand County Foundation, a national nonprofit working at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement.

Perschel is a distinguished leader in forest conservation and environmental management. He served as the New England Forestry Foundation’s Executive Director where he oversaw initiatives aimed at preserving and managing forest lands, ensuring sustainable practices, and protecting critical forest habitats.

Boggy Slough Conservation Area Receives Texas Leopold Conservation Award

The Boggy Slough Conservation Area along the Neches River is the recipient of the 2025 Texas Leopold Conservation Award®.

Leopold Conservation Awards honor ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

The T.L.L. Temple Foundation will be presented with the award at the Lone Star Steward Awards Dinner on May 21 in Austin. They receive $10,000 for being selected and to further their stewardship of the property.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Texas the award is presented in partnership with the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Lone Star Land Steward Awards program.

Diamond Bar Ranch Receives Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award

Diamond Bar Ranch is the recipient of the 2025 Nebraska Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Robert and Susanne Jones raise beef cattle and own the 22,000-acre Diamond Bar Ranch in Logan County. The Joneses will be presented with $10,000 and a crystal award later this year.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Nebraska, the award is presented with Nebraska Cattlemen, Cargill, and the Nebraska Environmental Trust.

Stomprud Angus Ranch to Receive South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award

Stomprud Angus Ranch of Mud Butte has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®.

The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In South Dakota, the award is presented with the South Dakota Grassland Coalition.

Larry and Eileen Stomprud own and operate Stomprud Angus Ranch in western South Dakota with their son Jay, and his wife Jennifer, and their grandchildren: Elijah, Kaira, and Joshua. 

Wagon Wheel Ranch to Receive Colorado Leopold Conservation Award

Wagon Wheel Ranch of Yuma has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Colorado Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

The Kenny and Jody Rogers family are cattle ranchers and owners of Wagon Wheel Ranch in Yuma and Washington counties. They will be presented with the award in June at the Colorado Cattlemen’s Association’s Annual Convention. They receive $10,000 for being selected.

Finalists Selected for Colorado Leopold Conservation Award

Two cattle ranches have been selected as finalists for the 2025 Colorado Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Colorado, the award is presented with Colorado Cattlemen’s Association, Colorado Cattlemen’s Agricultural Land Trust, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, American AgCredit, CoBank, Farm Credit of Southern Colorado, and Premier Farm Credit.

Driftless Area Farm Returns to its Roots

“I call it my spark bird,” Dan McGraw says of the Long-eared owl he first saw on his land in 2019.

It sparked an interest in providing bird habitat on McGraw’s 240-acre farm in southwest Wisconsin. The owl he spotted was attracted to something his father Paul had done years prior to conserve soil.

For decades, the McGraw land had been heavily grazed and farmed for row crops. When Dan’s father Paul McGraw enrolled 16 acres of highly erodible pastureland into the federal Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program, part of the agreement was to plant a mix of trees, including white pines. Long-eared owls are known to prefer a habitat of conifer trees and grasslands to hunt mice.

Alex Erickson Joins Sand County Foundation

Sand County Foundation has named Alex Erickson associate director of the Leopold Conservation Award program.

Erickson will play a key role in outreach to Leopold Conservation Award recipients and sponsors nationally.

Sand County Foundation, based in Madison, is a national non-profit that works with farmers, ranchers, foresters, and other private landowners to improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat. Leopold Conservation Awards are presented annually in 28 states to innovative landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their own land.

Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Oklahoma the $10,000 award is presented with ITC Great Plains, Noble Research Institute, Oklahoma Conservation Commission, Oklahoma Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Natural Resources Conservation Service.

Scotty and Jo Herriman Receive Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award

Scotty and Jo Herriman of South Coffeyville have been selected as the recipients of the Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award®.

The $10,000 award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

The Herrimans, farmers from Nowata County, were revealed as the award’s recipient at the Oklahoma Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Meeting on February 25.

Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Pennsylvania, the $10,000 award is presented with The Heinz Endowments, Horizon Farm Credit, and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

Maryland Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Maryland Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor, American Farmland Trust, present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states. In Maryland the $10,000 award is presented with Keith Campbell Foundation for the Environment, Maryland Association of Soil Conservation Districts, and Maryland Farm Bureau Inc.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.

New England Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 New England Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In New England the $10,000 award is presented with the New England Forestry Foundation and the New England chapter of American Farmland Trust.

Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Wisconsin the $10,000 award is presented with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin

Iowa Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Iowa Leopold Conservation Award^®.

The award honors farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 28 states. In Iowa, the $10,000 award is presented with Conservation Districts of Iowa and Practical Farmers of Iowa.

Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Minnesota Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Minnesota the $10,000 award is presented with the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition and Soil Regen.

Victor Harris Joins Sand County Foundation Board

Victor Harris has joined the board of directors of the Sand County Foundation, a national nonprofit working at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement.

Harris is the founder and president of Cierra Publishing Company and serves as the publisher and editor of Minority Landowner Magazine, a national publication that highlights the challenges and successes of minority, limited resource and small farmers, ranchers and forest landowners. 

“We are thrilled to bring Victor’s extensive communications, conservation, and forestry leadership and perspective to our board,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.

Nominations Being Accepted for 2025 New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award

Nominations are being accepted for New York State’s 2025 Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) Leopold Conservation Award. Presented in partnership with the Sand County Foundation, the annual award honors a farm and its nominating Soil and Water Conservation District for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. In New York the $10,000 award is presented in partnership with national sponsor American Farmland Trust, and state partner Cornell Cooperative Extension.

Kansas Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Kansas, the $10,000 award is presented with Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, and the Ranchland Trust of Kansas.

California Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 California Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In California the $10,000 award is presented with Sustainable Conservation and California Farm Bureau Federation.

Illinois Schools Help Promote Pollinators

Sand County Foundation is awarding pollinator seed starter kits to nine schools in Illinois.

The seed starter kits give K-12 students hands-on experience growing and planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers. Insect pollinators and monarch butterflies are essential for food production and ecological diversity, but their populations are at risk.

Iowa Schools Help Promote Pollinators

Sand County Foundation is awarding pollinator seed starter kits to 10 Iowa schools.

The seed starter kits give K-12 students hands-on experience growing and planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers. Insect pollinators and monarch butterflies are essential for food production and ecological diversity, but their populations are at risk.

Michigan Schools Help Promote Pollinators

Sand County Foundation is awarding pollinator seed starter kits to 17 Michigan schools.

The seed starter kits give K-12 students hands-on experience growing and planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers. Insect pollinators and monarch butterflies are essential for food production and ecological diversity, but their populations are at risk.

Wisconsin Schools Help Promote Pollinators

Sand County Foundation is awarding pollinator seed starter kits to 22 Wisconsin schools.

The seed starter kits give K-12 students hands-on experience growing and planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers. Insect pollinators and monarch butterflies are essential for food production and ecological diversity, but their populations are at risk.

Minnesota Schools Help Promote Pollinators

Sand County Foundation is awarding pollinator seed starter kits to nine Minnesota schools.

The seed starter kits give K-12 students hands-on experience growing and planting milkweed and other pollinator-friendly wildflowers. Insect pollinators and monarch butterflies are essential for food production and ecological diversity, but their populations are at risk.

Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Mississippi Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Mississippi the $10,000 award is presented with the Mississippi Farm Bureau Federation.

North Dakota Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 North Dakota Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In North Dakota, the $10,000 award is presented with North Dakota Grazing Lands Coalition, North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts and the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association.

Environmental Policy Innovation Center Enters New Phase of Addressing Serious Environmental Challenges for US Communities

Sand County Foundation, a Wisconsin-based nonprofit conservation organization, announced the spinoff of the Environmental Policy Innovation Center (EPIC) after an 8-year incubation period. The move marks a significant milestone in both organizations’ shared commitment to advancing conservation and environmental improvement nationwide.

Over the course of Sand County Foundation’s fiscal sponsorship of EPIC, it provided administrative and operational support until EPIC could establish itself as an independent and impactful 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Sand County Foundation has a long track record of similar fiscal sponsorships.

Utah Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Utah Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Utah the award is presented with Utah Farm Bureau Federation, Western AgCredit and Utah Cattlemen’s Association.

Illinois Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Illinois the award is presented with IL Corn and the Illinois Soybean Association.

New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In New Mexico, the $10,000 award is presented with New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, and Quivira Coalition.

The nomination deadline has been extended to June 15, 2025. 

Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Carolinas Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In North Carolina and South Carolina the award is presented with Carolina Farm Trust.

Troy Firth Receives Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award

Troy Firth of Spartansburg has been selected as the 2024 Pennsylvania Leopold Conservation Award® recipient.

The $10,000 award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Firth, who owns and operates Firth Maple Products, was revealed as the award recipient at the Pennsylvania Farm Show in Harrisburg on January 6.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Pennsylvania, the award is presented with The Heinz Endowments, Horizon Farm Credit, and Pennsylvania Farm Bureau.

High School Conservation Curriculum Launched in Alabama’s Wiregrass Region

Sand County Foundation, a national nonprofit conservation organization, has selected three high schools in Alabama’s Wiregrass region to receive a pollinator habitat education grant in 2025.

South Dale Middle School in the Dale County School District, Crenshaw County Schools’ Career Academy, and New Brockton High School in the Coffee County School District will receive science curriculum and $500 to create native plant habitat for imperiled pollinators.

Over two years, students will engage in hands-on experiences in habitat restoration with a goal of inspiring students about careers in conservation.

Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award Seeks Nominees

Nominations are now being accepted for the 2025 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award®.

The award honors farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In Kentucky, the $10,000 award is presented with the Kentucky Agricultural Council and Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts.

Award nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves. The nomination form can be found at www.sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA.

The nomination deadline date is March 31, 2025. Nominations must be emailed to KentuckyLCA@sandcountyfoundation.org.