#USA #Noble Research Institute #Ardmore #land stewardship #Regenerative Agriculture

Noble Research Institute Seeks Nominations for 2026 Land Stewardship Award

The Noble Research Institute, based in Ardmore, Oklahoma, has officially opened the nomination process for the highly regarded 2026 Noble Land Stewardship Award. This prestigious accolade is designed to honor the remarkable contributions of farmers, ranchers, and landowners who are pioneering efforts in regenerative land management. Applications are being accepted until May 29, 2026, and the recipient will be announced during this summer's events.

The award, which includes a stunning bronze sculpture titled Keeper of the Land, crafted by Oklahoma artist John David Rule, symbolizes the vital role that grazing animals play in restoring and enriching the land. By bestowing this recognition, the Noble Research Institute aims not only to celebrate significant achievements in land management but also to stimulate broader discussions about sustainable practices within and beyond the agricultural community.

Purpose and Impact of the Award

The Noble Land Stewardship Award is pivotal in promoting the health of soil, water, and wildlife habitats through the effective management of U.S. grazing lands. Its mission is grounded in the commitment to enhance land stewardship, advance soil health, and retain farmers and ranchers on their land. As stated by Steve Rhines, President and CEO of Noble Research Institute, “The award serves as an acknowledgment of the men and women who actively steward our nation's grasslands through conscientious livestock and grazing management.”

This endeavor aims to identify and showcase exemplary land stewards who care deeply for their environment and resources, thus enriching rural communities and bolstering domestic food production. Notably, the award was first presented to the Ellis family of G Bar C Ranch at the inaugural Roots Revelry event held in October 2025. This ranch was recognized for its impressive transformation of 3,000 acres, making it a benchmark for biodiversity and sustainable cattle production by recording over 660 species of flora and fauna.

What's Special About the Award

Winners of the Noble Land Stewardship Award receive not only the remarkable Keeper of the Land sculpture but also a financial prize to support their ongoing efforts in promoting regenerative practices. The announcement of the 2026 winner will occur at Noble Research Institute’s upcoming Roots Revelry event this October, further emphasizing the institute's dedication to reinforcing sustainability in agriculture.

Founded in 1945 by the visionary Lloyd Noble, the Noble Research Institute arose from a profound concern regarding the consequences of the Dust Bowl. Noble recognized that healthy soil is essential for a prosperous nation, and the institute's mission has consistently aimed at facilitating education, research, demonstration, and policy advocacy in support of farmers and ranchers.

How to Apply

To submit a nomination for the 2026 Noble Land Stewardship Award, or to gain further insights about this initiative, interested candidates and advocates can visit www.noble.org/roots-and-revelry/noble-land-stewardship-award. All applications must be submitted online by the deadline of May 29, 2026.

The Noble Research Institute stands as the largest nonprofit organization dedicated to agriculture in the United States, unwavering in its mission since its inception over 80 years ago. It continues to be a trusted ally for agricultural producers, offering critical educational resources, research support, and practical guidance on renewing soil health to enhance land and livestock welfare.

For more detailed information about Noble Research Institute and its initiatives, visit www.noble.org. This is a notable opportunity for recognizing and amplifying the voices in agriculture who are making a real difference in land stewardship and sustainable practices.