When: August 8, 2024
Time: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM
Directions: From Kones Korner in Castlewood, go two miles east on HWY 22. Blioux River Ranch is on the north side of the road at 457th Avenue.
The 2024 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award Recipient Tour will take place on August 8, 2024, at the Blioux River Ranch in Castlewood, South Dakota. This event honors Barry and Eli Little and their family for their exceptional land stewardship and conservation efforts.
Attendees of the tour will have the opportunity to explore the innovative conservation practices implemented at Blioux River Ranch. These practices include sustainable grazing, soil health improvement, and wildlife habitat enhancement, all of which contribute to the ranch’s ecological and economic resilience. The event includes guided tours, presentations, and discussions on topics like cover cropping, managed livestock grazing, and creating habitats for pollinators. It’s a great opportunity to learn from the Littles and see how their practices benefit both the environment and their farm.
The Leopold Conservation Award, presented by the Sand County Foundation, honors landowners who inspire others through their dedication to conservation practices. Named after the renowned environmentalist Aldo Leopold, this prestigious award recognizes individuals and families who demonstrate exceptional stewardship of natural resources. It celebrates farmers, ranchers, and forest owners who employ innovative methods to protect and enhance the environment.
Please RSVP to Judge Jessop at jljessop@kennebectelephone.com or by calling/texting 605-280-0127 to ensure an accurate meal count.
For more details about the Littles' conservation journey, visit their story at https://sandcountyfoundation.org/our-work/leopold-conservation-award-program/blioux-river-ranch.