Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 North Dakota Leopold Conservation Award.

The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.

Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Awards to private landowners in 28 states. In North Dakota, the $10,000 award is presented with North Dakota Grazing Lands Coalition, North Dakota Association of Soil Conservation Districts and the North Dakota Stockmen’s Association.

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others to consider conservation opportunities on their land.

Award applications may be submitted on behalf of a landowner, or landowners may apply themselves. The application form can be obtained from the Sand County Foundation by emailing NorthDakotaLCA@sandcountyfoundation.org. The application deadline is April 15.