The American Soybean Association is accepting applications for its 2027 Conservation Legacy Awards, which recognize U.S. soybean farmers who demonstrate environmental stewardship while maintaining productive and profitable operations.
The annual awards highlight farmers who incorporate conservation practices that improve soil health, protect water quality, increase efficiency and support the long-term sustainability of their operations.
Eligible conservation practices include cover crops, reduced tillage, nutrient management, irrigation management, diversified crop rotations, buffer implementation, terraces and waterways, and precision agriculture technologies that help optimize crop inputs.
Applications are open to all U.S. soybean farmers. Entries will be evaluated based on excellence in soil, water, input and environmental management, along with overall conservation and sustainability efforts.
Awards are presented across four regions: the Midwest, Upper Midwest, Northeast and South. One farmer from each region will be selected as a Regional Conservation Legacy Award winner and recognized during the 2027 Commodity Classic, scheduled for March 2-5 in New Orleans.
From the four regional winners, one farmer will be selected as the 2027 National Conservation Legacy Award recipient.
Regional winners will receive an expense-paid trip for two to Commodity Classic, recognition during the ASA Awards Celebration, a feature story highlighting their farming operation and conservation efforts, and a professionally produced on-farm video showcasing their conservation practices.
The Conservation Legacy Awards are sponsored by the American Soybean Association, BASF, Bayer, Nutrien, Valent USA and the Soy Checkoff.
Applications must be submitted by Sept. 15, 2026. Farmers may also be nominated for the awards.
Source: American Soybean Association, "Apply Now for ASA’s 2027 Conservation Legacy Awards"