Sand County Foundation

Photo Credit: Nick Bristol

We work at the intersection of agriculture and environmental improvement. 

As farming intensifies to meet global demand, we face critical challenges related to soil health, water conservation, and wildlife habitat. Sand County Foundation is a national nonprofit conservation organization equipping farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners with conservation data and reliable examples to guide their ethical land management.

Advancing Conservation Research

Our team of scientists works in partnership with landowners and land managers to conduct research and demonstrations of effective agricultural conservation techniques like cover cropping, managed livestock grazing, and pollinator habitat creation that can benefit the environment and the farm's bottom line.

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Recognizing Conservation Success

We celebrate conservation achievement through the Leopold Conservation Award® which honors farmers, ranchers and forestland owners for their exceptional environmental stewardship. Their stories inspire other landowners across the nation to consider conservation opportunities on their land.

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Mentoring New Farmers and Ranchers

Our Land Ethic Mentorship Program connects historically-underserved farmers and ranchers nationwide with conservation mentors, events, and other resources.

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Give a Gift to Create Your Own Conservation Legacy 

Sand County Foundation needs your help to advance conservation-minded land management. We are grateful for your support.

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Upcoming Events

Forests That Work: Balancing Conservation and Profit

Join us for a field day that blends conservation with profitability.

November 13 , 2025 - 9:00AM to 12:00PM
Eufaula, AL

Field Day: Grazing for Today and Tomorrow

Joins us for a practical look at how farmers in the Southeast are integrating conservation and productivity through ethical, regenerative agriculture. The 1-4 pm time of this event is Eastern Standard Time. Register by Nov. 12. 

November 14 , 2025 - 1:00PM to 4:00PM
Chattahoochee Hills, GA

Watershed Partnerships, Credit Trading, and Performance-Based Conservation

Join us to discuss the state of funding, challenges, and recommendations for programs that promote on-farm conservation activities that improve water quality in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. 

November 25 , 2025 - 11:00AM to 12:30PM
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“Conservation can accomplish its objectives only when it springs from impelling conviction on the part of private landowners."

- Aldo Leopold

Let's stay in touch! Subscribe to our e-newsletter to learn about successful approaches to soil, water, and wildlife habitat conservation on private land. Enter your information here.

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