‘Nominations open for Leopold Conservation Award in Minnesota’

A program that recognizes voluntary conservation efforts on farms and forestland is making its way to Minnesota. The Leopold Conservation Award, presented by the Sand County Foundation and American Farmland Trust, honors private landowners across 27 states, with Minnesota partners Soil Regen and the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition.

“Soil Regen believes that the foundation of agriculture starts from the ground up,” said Liz Haney of Soil Regen. “We are proud to support the diverse conservationists celebrated through the Leopold Conservation Award. They truly embody stewardship of the land.”

Nominations for the award can be made on behalf of a landowner or individuals can apply themselves. The Minnesota application can be accessed on the Sand County Foundation website, with a deadline of July 1st. The award recipient will receive ,000 and have their conservation success story featured in a video and other outreach materials.

“The Minnesota Soil Health Coalition leads the way in conservation by fostering farmer-to-farmer support,” said Mark Gutierrez, Executive Director of the Minnesota Soil Health Coalition. “We are thrilled to see farmers recognized for their outstanding stewardship of the land.”

Named in honor of conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award acknowledges landowners who inspire others with their commitment to environmental improvement.

“Leopold Conservation Award recipients embody Aldo Leopold’s land ethic, showcasing how individuals can enhance land health while producing food and fiber,” said Kevin McAleese, President, and CEO of the Sand County Foundation.