Emma and Eric Wicken, Wickens Salt Creek Ranch in Hilger, received the 2024 Montana Leopold Conservation Award® during the 105th Annual Montana Farm Bureau Convention in Billings. The award honors ranchers, farmers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in the management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working land. The Wickens received a crystal plaque and $10,000.

The Wickens returned home to take the reins of Eric’s family’s Wickens Salt Creek Ranch in 2007. They have since prioritized conservation practices to improve the health of their grasslands. Doing so nourishes their cattle and builds a more resilient ranch and rural community for their five children.

Rotationally grazing their Black Angus cattle contributes to nutrient cycling and carbon sequestration. With assistance from the federal Conservation Stewardship Program, prairies have been restored for livestock grazing and wildlife habitat. Elsewhere on their 4,700 acres, they grow a diverse rotation of peas, barley, hay, and wheat using no-till practices. A mix of sunflower, turnip, sorghum, and radish cover crops maintains continuously living roots in the soil to improve water infiltration and increase soil health.

While accepting the award at the November 20 luncheon, Emma Wickens said, “Conservation is not an island on its own, it’s a partnership with nature, communities that come together around nature and the future generations we plan for. We’re excited and energized to continue learning about how we can improve our conservation practices that increase diversity and respect for balance on our ranch: the cycle of land, water, wildlife, and community. Thank you, Montana Farm Bureau for hosting this recognition at your annual event and all you do to help farmers and ranchers in Montana.”

Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who inspire others with their dedication to environmental improvement. Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust will present Leopold Conservation Awards to landowners in 28 states this year. In Montana the award is presented annually with the Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, and the Montana Rangeland Resources Program. 

Applications are currently being accepted through March 3, 2025. The Montana Range Tour will be held on June 18 at Wickens Salt Creek Ranch. For more information on the Leopold Conservation Award visit mtrangelands.org.