Four Ranch Families Have Been Selected As the Finalists for the 2025 Oklahoma Leopold Conservation Award
The award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.
Named in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, this award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, A Sand County Almanac, Leopold advocated for “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.
The four finalists in Oklahoma are:
– Big D Farm and Ranch of Bristow in Creek County
– Phelan Ranch of Mountain Park in Comanche County
– Rising Sun Ranch of Roff in Pontotoc County
– Cody Sloan of Gore in Sequoyah, Muskogee, and LeFlore counties
“The quality and depth of the applicants and finalists for this year’s Leopold Conservation Award shines a spotlight on conservation’s leaders in Oklahoma. These farmers and ranchers set a high standard in conserving, protecting, and restoring our natural resources. Congratulations, good luck, and keep up the good work,” said Trey Lam, Oklahoma Conservation Commission Executive Director.
Read Sand County Foundation’s full press release here.