Conservation Learning Cohort Open to Midwest Farmers and Ranchers

Sand County Foundation is launching a peer-based conservation learning cohort program for farmers and ranchers in four Midwestern states. The program is free for beginning, first generation, military veterans, and other historically underserved farmers and ranchers in Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin. From August 2026 through February 2027, three cohorts will learn from one another and build valuable skills and knowledge on conservation and soil health; financial stability, land access, and marketing; and communication and catalytic leadership. The cohorts will be led by three farmers who have been recognized by Sand County Foundation’s Leopold Conservation Award. Participants will be eligible to apply for $250 to $500 microgrants to support their own conservation or regenerative agriculture efforts. Farmers and ranchers interested in participating in the program should register to attend a virtual meeting on either June 8 or 9, 2026.