Tom and Mimi Sidwell receive New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award
Tom and Mimi Sidwell of Tucumcari have been selected as the recipients of the New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award.
The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.
The Sidwells, who own and operate JX Ranch in Quay County, will be formally presented with the award at the upcoming New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau’s Annual Meeting.
Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 27 states. In New Mexico, the award is presented with New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, Quivira Coalition, New Mexico Coalition to Enhance Working Lands and New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau.
Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold called for what he called “a land ethic,” an ethical relationship between people and the land they own and manage.
Earlier this year, New Mexico landowners were encouraged to apply (or be nominated) for the award. Applications were reviewed by an independent panel of agricultural and conservation leaders.
Among the outstanding New Mexico landowners nominated for the award were finalists: Lanford Livestock of Truth or Consequences in Sierra County, and Philmont Scout Ranch of Cimarron in Colfax County. Last year’s award recipient was Sid Goodloe, the owner of Carrizo Valley Ranch who passed away in July.
The New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award is made possible through the generous support of American Farmland Trust, Sand County Foundation, New Mexico Association of Conservation Districts, Quivira Coalition, New Mexico Coalition to Enhance Working Lands, New Mexico Farm & Livestock Bureau, Tri-State Generation & Transmission Association, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Services of New Mexico, American AgCredit, John Duncan and Anita Sarafa, and Taos Ski Valley Foundation.
