TOPEKA, Kan. — Sand County Foundation, in partnership with Ranchland Trust of Kansas and the Kansas Association of Conservation Districts, has announced three finalists for the Kansas Leopold Conservation Award. Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the $10,000 award recognizes those who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife.
Vance and Louise Ehmke of Healy conserve soil and water by experimenting with crops to protect fields from soil erosion. Additionally, they have more than 50 playas that are used for research and education on how they impact the Ogallala Aquifer.
Josh and Gwen Hoy from Cedar Point rotationally graze their cattle to create grassland bird habitat. They also have partnered with conservation groups to improve the local watershed and prevent development in the Flint Hills.
Dwane Roth of Manhattan owns Big D Farms in Finney County, where cover crops are used to build soil health and combat wind erosion. He is one of Kansas’ first water technology farmers. He tests irrigation strategies that maintain crop production with reduced water usage.
The 2020 award winner will be announced in November.
— Kansas Livestock Association
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