The Leopold Conservation Award for New Mexico 2025, presented by the Sand County Foundation in partnership with American Farmland Trust and several state-level organizations, honors private landowners who exemplify excellence in the voluntary conservation of natural resources. Established in the spirit of Aldo Leopold, a pioneer in environmental ethics and land stewardship, the award is open to farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who actively manage working lands in ways that improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat.
The award offers a $10,000 prize to an outstanding landowner who voluntarily goes beyond compliance to implement conservation practices. The initiative is presented in 28 states and seeks to inspire others to engage in similar efforts. In New Mexico, key partners include the New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, Quivira Coalition, and American AgCredit. The application is open to both self-nominations and third-party nominations, which must be submitted via email to NewMexicoLCA@sandcountyfoundation.org.
Applications are reviewed by a state-specific panel composed of agricultural and conservation leaders. Each nomination must include detailed responses to five criteria: Conservation Ethic, Resilience, Leadership and Communication, Innovation and Adaptability, and Ecological Community. Nominees are also asked to provide supplementary information that helps judges understand the broader context of their conservation practices, such as acreage under management, type of operation, agency partnerships, and participation in federal conservation programs.
Additional application requirements include the submission of three letters of recommendation—at least one of which must be from a conservation organization or agency—and signed affirmation statements confirming land ownership or management, regulatory compliance, and a willingness to participate in promotional and media activities, including a video production of the nominee’s operation.
All completed applications must be submitted by June 15, 2025. While the opening date for applications is not specified, the award is recurring, and potential applicants are encouraged to consult the Leopold Conservation Award website for further updates. The winner will be recognized publicly and serve as a model of environmental stewardship.
