By Andi Anderson
Greg and Janis Thoren have been chosen as the recipients of the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award. This award honors farmers and forestland owners who show outstanding dedication to soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land.
The Thorens, who grow crops and raise cattle near Stockton in Jo Daviess County, will receive $10,000 and will be recognized at an on‑farm ceremony as well as during summer events hosted by the Association of Illinois Soil & Water Conservation Districts.
The Leopold Conservation Award is presented by the Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust.
In Illinois, partners include BASF, IL Corn, and the Illinois Soybean Association. The announcement was shared during Illinois’ Soil Health Week. Named after conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award highlights land stewards who inspire others through their care for the environment and their commitment to what Leopold called “a land ethic.”
Illinois landowners were encouraged to apply or be nominated. Applications were judged by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.
The Thorens use regenerative practices such as no‑till farming, cover crops, and the five core soil health principles: minimizing soil disturbance, keeping soil covered, maintaining living roots, increasing plant diversity, and integrating livestock.
They raise 2,200 acres of corn and soybeans and manage 250 beef cattle using virtual fencing. This allows cattle to graze in small sections for short periods, similar to how bison once moved across the land. The approach improves plant regrowth, soil fertility, and nutrient cycling.
By working with natural processes, the Thorens have reduced the need for chemical inputs, improved water infiltration, prevented soil erosion, and strengthened their farm’s long‑term resilience. Greg actively shares these practices at field days and serves with the Jo Daviess County Soil & Water Health Coalition and the Fields of Sinsinawa Farmer‑Led Learning Center.
Several agricultural leaders praised the Thorens:
“IL Corn is proud to recognize corn farmers who lead with integrity and a strong commitment to sustainability,” said Tim Thompson, IL Corn Marketing Board Chairman. “Greg Thoren represents the appreciation for land as Aldo Leopold upheld, using regenerative practices to improve soil health and strengthen his farm for the future. We’re proud to honor his commitment to conservation with this year’s Leopold Conservation Award.”
“The Illinois Soybean Association is proud to recognize Illinois farmers such as the Thorens who dedicate their time to preserving and improving our most valuable assets,” said Bryan Severs, Illinois Soybean Association Chairman. “Sustainability is one of Illinois agriculture’s greatest strengths, and it’s important that we celebrate those who are leading the charge.”
“BASF is proud to support the Illinois Leopold Conservation Award and recognize farmers doing the biggest job on Earth like the Thorens for their leadership in soil health and regenerative agriculture,” said Jessica Monserrate, BASF Head of Sustainability, North America. “Their dedication to innovation demonstrates how sustainable farming practices can strengthen both the land and farming operations.”
“These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today,” said Kevin McAleese, Sand County Foundation President and CEO. “Their dedication to conservation is both an inspiration to their peers as well as a reminder to all how important thoughtful agriculture is to clean water, healthy soil, and wildlife habitat.”
“As the national sponsor for Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award, American Farmland Trust celebrates the hard work and dedication of the award recipients,” said John Piotti, AFT President and CEO. “At AFT we believe that exemplary conservation involves the land itself, the practices employed on the land, and the people who steward it. This award recognizes the integral role of all three.”
The award is supported by several organizations, including American Farmland Trust, BASF, IL Corn, Illinois Soybean Association, Farm Credit Illinois, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Illinois, and Illinois Sustainable Ag Partnership.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sasiistock
Categories: Illinois, Rural Lifestyle