The New Mexico Leopold Conservation Award is an annual recognition of agricultural landowners who take a conservation-forward approach to their ranching operations. The finalists include JX Ranch in Quay County, whose owners have adopted innovative grazing practices and increased ground cover, leaving less sediment in the air and water while sequestering carbon. Lanford Livestock of Sierra County is improving soil health on the ranch with rotational grazing and conserving both electricity and water with solar pumps. In Colfax County, Philmont Scout Ranch has hosted thousands of youth to share the importance of responsible use of water, timber, and wildlife while responsibly thinning active forestland. The Taos Ski Valley Foundation, MCF’s New Mexico affiliate, is proud to support these conservation champions and is grateful for their commitment to environmental stewardship.