Application open for MN Corn-supported conservation award
Minnesota landowners are now eligible to apply for a $10,000 cash prize for voluntary conservation practices that inspire others and leave the land better than how they received it.
The Sand County Foundation, which works with private landowners to improve water quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat, is accepting applications for the Leopold Conservation Award now through July 1. Named in honor of conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement.
Each year, the Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners across the U.S. In 2024, the foundation will present the award in over 25 states. This will be the first time the award is open to Minnesota landowners and it is sponsored, in part, by Minnesota Corn as part of its mission to highlight the many voluntary ways producers increase on-farm sustainability.
The foundation will announce the Minnesota winner at the Premier Soil Health Event in Mankato in December. The winner will receive $10,000, and their conservation story will be featured in the foundation’s public outreach efforts.
Nominations may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may apply themselves. The application asks landowners to detail their conservation practices in five areas: conservation ethic, resilience, leadership and communication, innovation and adaptability, and ecological community. The Minnesota application can be found at sandcountyfoundation.org/ApplyLCA. Applications are reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders from Minnesota. The application deadline date is July 1. Applications must be emailed to award@sandcountyfoundation.org.
