By Blake Jackson
John and Randy Seymour of Upton have been named the recipients of the 2025 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award, which recognizes exceptional voluntary conservation efforts by farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners.
Presented by the Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust, the award honors individuals who demonstrate outstanding land stewardship practices that enhance soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working lands.
In Kentucky, the award is offered in partnership with the Kentucky Agricultural Council and the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts.
The Seymours, owners of Riders Mill Farms and Roundstone Native Seed LLC, were officially presented with the award on August 5 during the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Convention. In recognition of their efforts, they received a $10,000 cash prize.
Inspired by the legacy of Aldo Leopold, a pioneering conservationist and author of A Sand County Almanac, the award promotes the idea of a “land ethic” a philosophy that encourages responsible and ethical land management.
This year, Kentucky landowners were invited to apply or be nominated for the prestigious award. An independent panel of experts in agriculture and conservation reviewed the submissions. Finalists for the 2025 award included Steve and Melanie Kelley of Carlisle County, and Dr. James “Greg” Kuhns of Bullitt County.
Photo Credit: sand-county-foundation
Categories: Kentucky, General