HELENA, Mont. (NMB) – A pair of local residents have been selected as finalists for the prestigious Montana Leopold Conservation Award.
The local nominees are Craig and Conni French of Malta. They were named finalists for their innovative grazing practices used at French Ranch to improve soil health and water quality. They have installed temporary, wildlife-friendly fencing for beef cattle. This reduces barriers for migratory pronghorn, mule deer and elk. In addition, they have moved livestock water tanks and windbreaks away from the ranch’s three miles of shoreline along Beaver Creek. The French’s work with The Nature Conservancy to establish habitat for threatened grassland birds and sage grouse.
The other finalists are Pete and Meagan Lannan of Livingston. They were nominated for their regenerative agriculture practices at Barney Creek Livestock to improve soil and build rangeland resiliency.
Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers, ranchers, foresters and other landowners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land.
This is the second year the $10,000 award will be presented in Montana.
The award is presented to private landowners in 21 states with a variety of conservation, agricultural and forestry organizations. In Montana, Sand County Foundation presents the award with Governor Steve Bullock’s Office, Montana Department of Agriculture, and the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation’s Rangeland Resources Committee.
The award recipient will be revealed at the Montana Range Tour on September 9th. Last year’s recipient was Dana Milton of Roundup.
For more information, visit the Leopold Conservation Award website.
