Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball today announced applications are being accepted for New York State’s 2026 Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM) Leopold Conservation Award. Presented in partnership with the Sand County Foundation, the annual award honors a farm and its nominating Soil and Water Conservation District for extraordinary achievement in environmental stewardship. In New York, the $10,000 award is presented in partnership with national sponsor American Farmland Trust and state partner Cornell Cooperative Extension.
Commissioner Ball said, “The prestigious New York AEM-Leopold Conservation Award recognizes farmers who are committed to protecting the environment and leaving the land better than how they found it through voluntary conservation of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. Our farmers, alongside their Soil and Water Conservation Districts, are working hard to implement on-farm, best management practices that are directly benefiting the environment and it’s a privilege for us at the Department to help highlight their work. I thank the Sand County Foundation for collaborating with us to host this award program and encourage all eligible farmers to contact their Soil and Water Conservation District to apply.”
County Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) apply for the AEM Leopold Conservation Award on behalf of farms. Eligible candidates successfully incorporate AEM best management practices into the management of their farm, assisting the farmer in meeting business and environmental goals. Applicants should demonstrate conservation leadership and outreach in the agricultural sector and be an inspiration to other farmers. Applications must be received by the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets by May 15, 2026.
Source : ny.gov