By Scout Nelson
Blioux River Ranch in Castlewood, owned and operated by Barry and Eli Little, has been honored with the 2024 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award. This accolade comes with a $10,000 prize and recognizes significant contributions to soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working lands.
Presented by the Sand County Foundation and the American Farmland Trust, alongside state partners like the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association and the South Dakota Grassland Coalition, the award celebrates landowners in 27 states who embody the spirit of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold. Inspired by Leopold’s vision in his 1949 work, “A Sand County Almanac,” the award encourages a deep, ethical relationship between people and the land.
At their ranch in Hamlin County, the Littles manage 1,600 acres of cropland and 800 acres of pastures. They implement rotational grazing with 500 head of beef cattle on native grasslands and cover crops, enhancing soil vitality and supporting diverse wildlife populations.
Their efforts have yielded both environmental and economic benefits, reducing the need for fertilizers and herbicides while boosting crop yields.
Their commitment to conservation extends beyond their land. As active members of Pheasants Forever, the Littles also contribute to bird-friendly habitat initiatives across the region. The award will be formally presented to them at the upcoming annual convention of the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association in December.
Leaders from the partnering organizations praised the Littles for their holistic approach to land management. They emphasized that the ranch’s practices not only improve the land but also ensure a sustainable legacy for future generations. This recognition reaffirms that the ethos of Aldo Leopold’s land ethic continues to grow through the stewardship of dedicated landowners like Barry and Eli Little.
Photo Credit -sand-county-foundation
Categories: South Dakota, General, Sustainable Agriculture