Noble invites land stewards to apply for 2026 regenerative grazing award
Noble Research Institute is now accepting applications for the 2026 Noble Land Stewardship Award, a national recognition program honoring farmers, ranchers, and landowners who demonstrate leadership in regenerative land management. Applications will remain open until May 29, 2026, and the winner will be announced later this summer.
The award highlights individuals and operations working to improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat through responsible grazing and land management practices. By sharing the experiences of successful land stewards, the program aims to encourage broader discussions about sustainable land use and inspire others both within and beyond the agricultural sector.
According to Noble Research Institute, the award reflects its long-standing commitment to supporting grazing lands and helping producers remain successful while protecting natural resources.
"The award is another way for Noble to serve the men and women actively stewarding our nation's grasslands through livestock and grazing management," said Steve Rhines, president and CEO of Noble Research Institute. "We look forward to recognizing another outstanding land steward who cares for the land and its resources, strengthens our rural communities and contributes to our domestic food production."
Recipients receive a bronze sculpture titled Keeper of the Land, created by Oklahoma artist John David Rule, along with a cash prize. The sculpture symbolizes the role grazing animals can play in restoring and improving land health. The 2026 winner will be formally recognized during Noble’s annual Roots & Revelry event scheduled for October.
The inaugural award was presented in 2025 to G Bar C Ranch and the Ellis family. Their operation was recognized for transforming 3,000 acres into a model of biodiversity and sustainable cattle production, documenting more than 660 species of plants, animals, birds, and other ecological communities across their working lands.
Founded in 1945 by Lloyd Noble following the Dust Bowl era, Noble Research Institute continues to focus on soil health and regenerative grazing practices. Today, the organization supports farmers and ranchers through education, research, demonstration programs, policy work, and producer recognition initiatives.
Farmers, ranchers, and landowners interested in applying for the 2026 award can submit applications online before the May 29 deadline. The program aims to celebrate leadership in land stewardship and encourage practical solutions for long-term agricultural sustainability. To apply visit https://www.noble.org/roots-and-revelry/noble-land-stewardship-award/.
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