By Blake Jackson
Noll's Dairy Farm in Alma, Wisconsin, has been named the recipient of the 2023 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. The award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement.
The Noll family has long been committed to conserving the natural resources on their farm. They have restored a dry bluff prairie remnant, improved timber stands, and enhanced wildlife habitat. They have also taken steps to prevent soil erosion and protect water quality.
The Nolls' efforts have been praised by a wide range of organizations, including the Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, the Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, and the Sand County Foundation.
"The Nolls are a prime example of this outstanding dedication to land stewardship," said Chad Vincent, CEO of Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin. "We are honored to partner with Sand County Foundation to recognize the family's conservation practices and a land ethic that fits those established by Aldo Leopold."
"Wisconsin farmers are on the frontlines of progress when it comes to advancing conservation," said Wisconsin Farm Bureau President Kevin Krentz. "We extend our congratulations to the Noll family on their outstanding dedication to conservation."
The Nolls are the fourth generation to operate their family farm. They are committed to passing on their conservation ethic to future generations.
"We are honored to receive this award," said Mark Noll. "We are passionate about conservation and we are committed to doing our part to protect our natural resources."
The Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award is made possible thanks to the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Sand County Foundation, Culver's, Compeer Financial, McDonald's, The Nature Conservancy, USDA-Natural Resources Conservation Service, We Energies Foundation, Wisconsin Corn Growers Association, Wisconsin Corn Promotion Board, Wisconsin Land and Water Conservation Association, and Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association.
About the Leopold Conservation Award
The Leopold Conservation Award is a national program that recognizes outstanding land stewardship. The award is given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, who called for a "land ethic" in his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac.
The Leopold Conservation Award is presented to private landowners in 27 states. In Wisconsin, the award is presented with Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin.
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Categories: Wisconsin, Livestock, Dairy Cattle