Listening to the land
Farmers and ranchers recognized for conservation efforts
Story by Christine Souza ∞ Photos by Paolo Vescia
To preserve the land under their care for future generations, many farmers and ranchers employ sustainable practices to maintain natural resources. The Leopold Conservation Award, established in memory of conservationist Aldo Leopold, recognizes agriculturists who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat on private, working land. The 2022 award was presented to the Beretta Family Dairy of Sonoma County. “I’ve tried to be ahead of the curve for a number of years,” says Doug Beretta, who farms with his wife, Sharon, and adult children Ryan and Jennifer, with help from daughter
Lisa and her son, Braydon. “The more conservation that I can do to make sure that this property stays in the family and stays as a farm, that’s the biggest thing for me.” Sardella Ranch of Tuolumne County was also an award finalist. The Leopold Conservation Award in California is made possible thanks to American Farmland Trust, Sustainable Conservation, California Farm Bureau, Sand County Foundation, The Harvey L. & Maud C. Sorensen Foundation, Farm Credit, The Nature Conservancy in California, McDonald’s and California Leopold Conservation Award recipient alumni.
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January/February 2023
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