- Video
Committed to land ethics
Since 2019, SOVRN has partnered with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) and Sand County Foundation to tell the stories of Montana’s most dedicated land stewards through the Leopold Conservation Award.
Named for renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners whose commitment to stewardship goes beyond good business. These landowners demonstrate that productive working lands and responsible conservation can thrive together. Their work protects wildlife habitat, improves water quality, strengthens soil health, and ensures Montana’s agricultural heritage remains strong for future generations. The award is rooted in Leopold’s “land ethic”—the belief that people have a responsibility to care for the land they own and manage.
Founded in 1965, the Sand County Foundation advances voluntary conservation practices that benefit both the environment and agricultural communities. Through the Leopold Conservation Award, the organization shines a spotlight on landowners who are proving that conservation and production are not competing priorities—they are inseparable parts of a healthy landscape and a sustainable future.
Over the past several years, we’ve had the privilege of helping share the stories of Montana’s Leopold Conservation Award recipients through film, photography, and storytelling that celebrates their commitment to the land and the communities that depend on it.
Montana Leopold Award Recipients
2025 — Thomas Herefords Ranch | Gold Creek, MT
2024 — Wickens Salt Creek Ranch | Hilger, MT
2023 — Myllymaki Farm | Stanford, MT
2022 — Barney Creek Livestock | Livingston, MT
2021 — Hidden Hollow Hideaway Cattle & Guest Ranch | Townsend, MT
2020 — C Lazy J Livestock | Malta, MT
2019 — Milton Ranch | Roundup, MT
These stories are more than award profiles. They are proof that Montana’s ranching families continue to lead by example—balancing production, stewardship, and innovation while leaving the land better than they found it.
