Leopold Conservation Award Seeks California Landowners Who Exemplify Sound Land Stewardship
In partnership with Sustainable Conservation and the California Farm Bureau Federation, the Sand County Foundation is seeking nominations for the 2010 California Leopold Conservation Award. Nominations are due Monday, July 12, 2010.
The award recognizes private landowners' commitment to responsible environmental stewardship and land management. The award also aims to inspire others to become effective environmental stewards, and help the public understand the important role dedicated farmers and ranchers play in sustaining a healthy environment.
Rewarding and exemplifying landowners' commitment to protecting natural resources is crucial - as a majority of the nation's remaining wild places and species are located on or near private property.
Award Origins
The Leopold Conservation Award was born out of the Sand County Foundation's belief that voluntary conservation by private landowners, rather than government regulation, benefits the environment more - and at a lower cost and with more lasting results. The foundation also recognized that landowners are on the front lines of conservation and should be recognized for protecting the environment.
2009 Winner
Central Valley farmer John Diener took home the $10,000 grand prize in 2009. Diener farms using innovative approaches to land, water and wildlife management. Among other achievements, Diener pioneered work on conservation tillage for his crops that reduces the number of tractor operations, dust emissions and diesel fuel. He is now coupling conservation tillage with water-efficient irrigation systems - an important step in preserving California's precious water resources.
Award Details
As in the past, 2010 finalists will be selected in part based on their commitment to responsible and sustainable land management, the overall health of their land, implementation of innovative practices, and dedication to community outreach and leadership. The grand prize of $10,000 and a crystal rendering of Aldo Leopold, author of the Sand County Almanac, will be presented at the California Farm Bureau Federation's annual convention in December. Runner-up prizes of $1,000 will also be presented.
Are you a California farmer or rancher committed to sound environmental stewardship? Know one who is? Download a 2010 nomination form today.
The deadline for nominations is July 12, 2010.
