By Blake Jackson
Kentucky farmers and foresters, your dedication to conservation deserves recognition! Commissioner of Agriculture Jonathan Shell encourages you to nominate yourselves or fellow land stewards for the prestigious 2024 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award.
This $10,000 prize honors exceptional work in conserving land, water, and wildlife habitat on private working lands. It celebrates the spirit of Aldo Leopold, whose call for an ethical relationship with the land continues to inspire generations.
"Our farmers are true guardians of Kentucky's natural treasures," says Commissioner Shell. "This award shines a light on those who go the extra mile for conservation, showcasing innovative practices that benefit us all."
The Leopold Conservation Award, presented by the Sand County Foundation, recognizes outstanding achievement in 26 states. In Kentucky, this partnership is strengthened by the American Farmland Trust, Kentucky Agricultural Council, and Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts. Nominations are open to any owner or manager of private working land.
Kentucky boasts a proud history of Leopold Award recipients, starting with Sherwood Acres Farm in 2013 and most recently, Donald Veatch of Campbellsville in 2023.
This prestigious award wouldn't be possible without the dedication of various partners, including the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Natural Resources Conservation Service, Kentucky Farm Bureau Federation, and many more.
If you know a Kentucky landowner who excels in land stewardship, inspires others, and embodies Leopold's land ethic, submit a nomination by March 31st! Let's recognize and celebrate the heroes who ensure a healthy and sustainable future for Kentucky's land and its people. The application can be found at sandcountyfoundation.org/uploads/2024-CFN-Kentucky.pdf.
For more information on the award, visit leopoldconservationaward.org.
Photo Credit: leopold-conservation-award
Categories: Kentucky, General