Three Kentucky Farmers Named Finalists for Conservation Award

By Blake Jackson

Three Kentucky farmers and landowners have been named finalists for the 2026 Kentucky Leopold Conservation Award, an honor recognizing outstanding stewardship of natural resources on working farms and forestlands.

The award celebrates landowners who demonstrate exceptional commitment to improving soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat while maintaining productive agricultural operations.

Named after renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award reflects his vision of a “land ethic,” first outlined in his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac. The program is presented by Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust in 28 states.

In Kentucky, the award includes a $10,000 prize and is presented in partnership with the Kentucky Agricultural Council and the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts.

One finalist is James Benton of Campbell County. At Twelve Mile Farm, Benton has combined agricultural production with conservation efforts through habitat restoration, prescribed fire management, water quality protection, and preservation of historic resources. A conservation easement safeguards a 63-acre stream corridor near the Ohio River.

Another finalist is Dr. James “Greg” Kuhns of Bullitt County. His Crooked Creek Farm emphasizes responsible land, timber, and water management.

Conservation efforts include expanding milkweed habitat for Monarch butterflies, establishing riparian buffers to reduce erosion, creating wildlife ponds, and converting fescue fields into native grasslands that support both wildlife and cattle production.

The third finalist is Shane and Felicia Wells of Butler County. Their Mockingbird Hill Farms operation utilizes no-till farming, cover crops, and precision nutrient management to reduce soil loss.

The family also practices rotational grazing, manages woodlands, maintains pollinator habitats, and floods wetlands annually to benefit waterfowl.

The winner will be announced at the Kentucky Association of Conservation Districts’ Annual Convention in July.

“The Kentucky Agricultural Council is excited to recognize private landowners across the state who practice exceptional environmental stewardship,” said Tod Griffin, Kentucky Agricultural Council Chair.

“Farmers are innovators in conservation and protecting our natural resources to ensure food and fiber production for future generations of Kentuckians.”

Photo Credit: sandy-county