By Blake Jackson
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball has announced the three finalists for the 2026 Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM)-Leopold Conservation Award.
The annual honor recognizes farms and forestland owners that demonstrate outstanding stewardship of soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and sustainable land management while working closely with their local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs).
“Every year, we look forward to honoring New York farmers who go above and beyond to leave the land better than they found it through the distinguished New York AEM-Leopold Conservation award," said Commissioner Ball.
"The three finalists in contention for the 2026 award have long been dedicated to best practices that protect our natural resources and conserve our environment, both on their farms and in their communities. I congratulate all of them for inspiring their neighbors to follow in their footsteps, and look forward to shining a spotlight on their efforts when we join with the Sand County Foundation to award the AEM-Leopold Conservation Award later this year.”
"These award finalists are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today," said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO.
"Their dedication to conservation is both an inspiration to their peers as well as a reminder to all how important thoughtful agriculture is to clean water, healthy soil, and wildlife habitat."
The New York AEM Award has partnered with the Sand County Foundation's Leopold Conservation Award program since 2020 to recognize farmers who demonstrate exceptional environmental leadership.
2026 Finalists:
- Ben Wever Farm (Essex County): Owned by Shaun and Linda Gilliland, the 495-acre farm raises rotationally grazed livestock, produces honey and forest products, protects wildlife habitat, supports salmon monitoring, and maintains public fishing access while improving water quality.
- Bottomland Farm of Berkshire (Tioga County): Operated by Becca Rimmel and Bill Morse, the farm combines pasture-raised livestock, vegetable production, no-till practices, and forest farming while emphasizing ecological stewardship and community engagement.
- El-Vi Farms LLC (Ontario and Wayne Counties): This 2,800-cow dairy operation uses conservation tillage, cover crops, nutrient management planning, manure injection, and educational outreach to promote sustainable farming and protect water resources.
The recipient of the 2026 AEM-Leopold Conservation Award will receive a $10,000 prize and will be announced later this summer.
Photo Credit: sand-county-foundation
Categories: New York, Business, General