By Blake Jackson
Whispering Hills Farm, owned by Mike and Tammy Wilson of Lawrenceburg, has been recognized for its exceptional land management practices with the prestigious 2024 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award.
"Farmers are some of the nation's best conservationists," stated Kentucky Agriculture Commissioner Jonathan Shell. "This award honors those who demonstrate exceptional stewardship of their agricultural land. Whispering Hills Farm exemplifies the ethical land use practices that will ensure the future of farming. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition!"
Presented at the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts' Annual Convention on July 16th, the award acknowledges farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who excel in soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat management on working lands. Whispering Hills Farm received $10,000 alongside the prestigious honor.
The national Leopold Conservation Award is presented by the Sand County Foundation and American Farmland Trust in 28 states.
In Kentucky, the award is co-sponsored by the Kentucky Agricultural Council and the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts.
"The Kentucky Agricultural Council is proud to again recognize outstanding stewardship and conservation efforts like those of the Wilson family," said Dr. Tony Brannon, Chair of the Kentucky Agricultural Council. "This award celebrates the Wilson family's lifelong dedication to promoting good land management and their passion for Anderson County agriculture."
"Kentucky's conservation districts advocate for sound management of all our natural resources," said Allan Bryant, President of the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts. "We're thrilled to recognize the deserving Wilson family. This year's recipient exemplifies a true working family farm with a strong commitment to land stewardship."
Inspired by renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award honors landowners who inspire others through their environmental dedication. Leopold's influential 1949 book, "A Sand County Almanac," called for a "land ethic," emphasizing an ethical relationship between people and the land they manage.
Selected through a competitive process, Kentucky landowners were encouraged to apply or be nominated for the award.
Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders from Kentucky.
Finalists for the 2024 award included Steve and Melanie Kelley of Bardwell in Carlisle County and John and Randy Seymour of Upton in Hart County.
Photo Credit: sand-county-foundation
Categories: Kentucky, Government & Policy