MADISON, Wis. — The distinguished South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award® is now accepting applications for its 2026 edition. This prestigious $10,000 award recognizes exceptional landowners who excel in managing soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on their properties. Hosted by the Sand County Foundation and sponsored nationally by the American Farmland Trust, this award is part of a widespread effort to promote land stewardship in 28 states, including South Dakota.
South Dakota, known for its sprawling grasslands and agricultural heritage, plays a pivotal role in the sustainability and conservation discourse. With the Leopold Conservation Award, the state’s agricultural leaders are recognized not only for their economic contributions but also for their commitment to ecological conservation. In 2025, Stomprud Angus Ranch of Mud Butte received this honor, showcasing their dedication to the sustainable management of their 10,000-acre ranch.
The South Dakota chapters of the Grassland Coalition and the Soil Health Coalition are co-presenters of the award, highlighting South Dakota’s commitment to conservation. “The award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s ‘land ethic’ is alive and well today,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO. Cindy Zenk, Executive Director of the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition, further noted, “A healthy and productive landscape is vital to the long-term success of our communities.”
With the application deadline set for March 7, 2026, potential awardees must demonstrate excellence in sustainable land management. Applications can be submitted by landowners or on their behalf, encouraging a wide pool of candidates to showcase innovative conservation practices. All applications should be emailed to SouthDakotaLCA@sandcountyfoundation.org.
South Dakota is home to a rich tapestry of ecosystems, from its prairies teeming with wildlife to its productive farms and ranches. As such, the Leopold Conservation Award serves as an aspirational model for landowners statewide. Its emphasis on soil health, wildlife habitat preservation, and water quality is crucial as the state’s agriculture industry faces new environmental challenges.
Beyond the monetary prize, award recipients are expected to host tours and partake in video productions, providing an invaluable opportunity for the community to learn from best practices already flourishing within the state. The involvement of entities like the American Farmland Trust, South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks, and South Dakota State University signifies a strong support network for conservation efforts.
Aldo Leopold’s vision of a harmonious relationship between people and the land they inhabit continues to inspire generations. His pioneering ideas, encapsulated in his 1949 book “A Sand County Almanac”, have shaped modern environmentalism and conservation ethics. As South Dakota progresses towards a sustainable future, the Leopold Conservation Award stands as a testament to the enduring relevance of his philosophy.
Key Organizations Supporting the South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award:
- South Dakota Grassland Coalition
- South Dakota Soil Health Coalition
- South Dakota Farmers Union
- South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources
- South Dakota Farm Bureau Federation
- USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service
- Audubon Great Plains
- Ducks Unlimited
These collaborative efforts, rooted in South Dakota’s geographical and cultural context, highlight the state’s role at the forefront of agricultural conservation. Together, these stakeholders ensure that the spirit of conservation continues to thrive, encouraging more landowners to adopt ethical land management practices for the benefit of future generations.
Doug Sombke
Doug Sombke, President of the South Dakota Farmers Union, emphasized the importance of such initiatives, stating, “Farmers and ranchers understand the importance of land stewardship because our life’s work of raising crops and livestock, and the future of agriculture in South Dakota, depend on healthy soils and grasslands.”
Cindy Zenk
Cindy Zenk, Executive Director of the South Dakota Soil Health Coalition, affirmatively remarked, “It’s an honor to help acknowledge the good work these land stewards are doing across the state.”
The Leopold Conservation Award’s legacy in South Dakota not only highlights outstanding individuals but also fortifies a collective resolve to cherish and sustain our natural resources. As landowners submit their applications, the anticipation builds for the next recipient who will continue to exemplify the spirit of conservation in the Mount Rushmore State.