#USA #Noble Research Institute #McKenzie #Black Leg Ranch #Doan Family

Black Leg Ranch Receives the 2026 Noble Land Stewardship Award

In a distinguished celebration of sustainable agriculture, Black Leg Ranch has been recognized with the prestigious 2026 Noble Land Stewardship Award. This accolade, presented by the Noble Research Institute, acknowledges their exceptional regenerative practices that have significantly enhanced water quality and wildlife habitats. The award ceremony took place during the Roots Revelry event on October 21, 2026, in Ardmore, Oklahoma.

Historical Significance

Established in 1882 by George H. Doan, Black Leg Ranch has deep roots in the North Dakota landscape. The ranch has transitioned through generations, with the Doan family playing a pivotal role in its development, particularly in modernizing ranch operations. Notably, Jewell W. Doan Sr. introduced Angus cattle to southern North Dakota in 1930, marking a significant shift in the ranch's livestock management.

In the late 1980s, Jerry and Renae Doan returned to embrace holistic management. This strategic approach facilitated a shift towards rotational grazing, enhancing both the land's productivity and ecological integrity. Today, the ranch spans 21,000 acres in the Missouri Coteau region, featuring 75% native grassland.

Current Operations

The ranch is home to 700 cow-calf pairs, 1,500 yearlings, and 400 buffalo. It also provides custom grazing services for an additional 1,100 cow-calf pairs. Beyond cattle ranching, the Doans have diversified their operations by launching Rolling Plains Adventures, a hunting outfitting business, and Black Leg Brewery, which produces craft beer using local ingredients. They also host Black Leg Events, which caters to agritourism by organizing weddings and corporate gatherings.

A key feature of their sustainable practices is a sophisticated water pipeline system. This innovative approach has allowed the ranchers to distribute water across 100 paddocks, ensuring that livestock grazing near creeks and ponds is carefully managed. This has led to improved water infiltration, as well as enhanced ground cover across the ranch lands.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts

The ecological impact of their practices is remarkable. Audubon bird surveys reveal a notable increase in bird populations, including species that are currently threatened. Furthermore, testing by the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality has indicated improved fish populations and aquatic insect quality in Long Lake Creek. The Doan family collaborates with organizations such as Ducks Unlimited and Partners for Fish and Wildlife on various habitat restoration and research initiatives.

Jerry Doan articulates a poignant concern about the erosion of grasslands, stating, "We’re losing the grasslands at astronomical levels... if we don’t work together, we’ll wake up one day without any grasslands and wildlife." His sentiment underlines the urgency for collective stewardship among conservationists and agricultural producers alike.

Looking to the Future

As the fifth generation of the Doan family carries forward the ranching legacy, they are committed to leaving the land in better condition for future generations. Steve Rhines, President and CEO of the Noble Research Institute, noted that the improvements in soil health, livestock productivity, and biodiversity on the ranch validate their mission.

The award also comes with a bronze sculpture titled "Keeper of the Land", crafted by Oklahoma artist John David Rule, symbolizing the role of livestock in environmental restoration. The Roots Revelry event commemorates the vision initiated by Lloyd Noble in 1945, which aimed to support farmers and ranchers in efficient land stewardship in the aftermath of the Dust Bowl.

For those interested in following in their footsteps, applications for the 2027 Noble Land Stewardship Award will open on January 18, 2027. More information can be found on the Noble Research Institute's website.

About the Noble Research Institute

The Noble Research Institute is renowned as the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to improving farm and ranch management. Since its inception in 1945, it has been at the forefront of research, education, and consultation, fostering agricultural producers' ability to regenerate soil health while enhancing their livelihoods. Its ongoing commitment to sustainable agriculture includes managing 13,500 acres of working ranchlands, providing invaluable insights for the agricultural community.