Nominations are open for the 2025 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award, which honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who excel in managing soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat.

Presented by the Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust, the award is given in 28 states. In Kansas, the $10,000 prize is awarded in partnership with the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts and the Ranchland Trust of Kansas.

Named after conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to adopt conservation practices. Leopold’s 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, introduced the concept of a “land ethic”—a responsible relationship between people and the land.

Nominations can be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may nominate themselves and are due by June 2, and must be emailed to KansasLCA@sandcountyfoundation.org.

An independent panel of Kansas agricultural and conservation leaders will review submissions. Last year’s award went to Barby Ranch of Clark and Comanche counties.

The Leopold Conservation Award Program highlights the achievements of Kansas agricultural landowners dedicated to conservation and responsible land stewardship. The Kansas Association of Conservation Districts and the Ranchland Trust of Kansas support the award, recognizing farmers and ranchers who exceed standard conservation practices. Landowners may nominate themselves or seek assistance with their application by contacting RTK.