Posted 9 March, 2026
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award. Families selected for this year’s honor will be recognized during a ceremony at the 2026 Iowa State Fair as part of Iowa’s America250 celebration, commemorating American independence and highlighting agriculture’s enduring role in our nation’s strength and prosperity.
The Iowa Farm Environmental Leader Award recognizes farm families who demonstrate outstanding voluntary efforts to improve and protect Iowa’s soil and water resources while also serving as leaders in their community. Each year, farm families from across the state are honored for leadership in implementing conservation practices such as cover crops, no-till and reduced tillage, nutrient management, grassed waterways, wetlands, saturated buffers, bioreactors and many other innovative water quality practices that filter the water and hold soil in place.
"As we reflect on 250 years of American progress, we recognize that Iowa’s greatest strength has always been our land and the people who care for it," said Iowa Department of Natural Resources Director Kayla Lyon. "Focusing on environmental stewardship supports both our agricultural economy and our natural resources. We celebrate these farm families who are voluntarily putting in the work to ensure the lasting health of our land and water."
Award recipients will be announced during a ceremony on Aug. 19 at the Iowa State Fair. Families recognized this year will receive a special America250 seal on their certificate and have their photos taken in front of an America250 backdrop.
Nominations may be submitted by farmers, landowners, conservation professionals, commodity groups, or members of the public. The nomination form can be found on the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship’s website. An appointed committee representing conservation and agricultural groups will review the nominations and select the winners.
The deadline to nominate a farmer or farm family is Monday, May 4.