Climate & Environment
Sebero Family’s 500‑acre Wisconsin Forest Earns Spot as Leopold Conservation Award Finalist
Jesse and Kylie Sebero manage more than 500 acres of contiguous forest in Marinette County, balancing timber production with wildlife conservation. They open the property to researchers and organize educational tours for landowners and forestry professionals. On September 10, 2026, the Sand County Foundation announced that the Seberos were among five finalists for the 2026 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. The award, worth $10,000, recognizes farmers and forestland owners who make significant efforts to protect soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat while managing productive land. The foundation, in partnership with American Farmland Trust, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation and Dairy Farmers of Wisconsin, will announce the winner on November 12.
The Sebero Family Tree Farm in Porterfield covers more than 500 acres of forest. Rather than focusing solely on timber, the family considers the ecological and economic value of each acre. According to the Sand County Foundation, the Seberos manage timber quality and wildlife habitat to achieve the forest’s fullest potential. They also make the woodland available for research projects and tours, welcoming landowners, timber professionals and conservation experts.
Jesse Sebero works as a technical service provider for the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, having written 272 forestry plans for thousands of acres of privately owned land. His experience supports the Sebero property’s role as a site for research, learning and knowledge sharing.
The other four finalists focus on farming, grazing, soil health and water protection. Andy Bensend of AB Farms in Barron County uses cover crops, nutrient management and reduced tillage to grow corn, soybeans and winter wheat while participating in research on soil health. The Brattset Family Farm in Jefferson County practices rotational grazing of beef cattle since 2005, integrates cropland into perennial vegetation, and works with the National Audubon Society to support grassland bird habitats. Jeff Endres of Endres Berryridge Farms in Dane County installed a manure composting facility and founded the Yahara Pride farmer‑led watershed group to reduce phosphorus pollution. The Schoepp Family of Lodi uses no‑till farming, diverse crop rotations, cover crops and rotational grazing of dairy heifers and beef cattle.
The Leopold Conservation Award, named after Aldo Leopold, honors landowners who combine productive land management with environmental stewardship. It is presented by the Sand County Foundation and American Farmland Trust to private landowners in 28 states. Wisconsin’s award has been presented annually since 2006, with the 2025 recipient being Michael Berg of Blanchardville. The 2026 winner will be announced at the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection meeting on November 12.
Frequently asked questions
Who are the Sebero Family?
They manage more than 500 acres of contiguous forest in Marinette County, balancing timber production with wildlife conservation.
What is the Leopold Conservation Award?
Award worth $10,000 presented by the Sand County Foundation and American Farmland Trust to private landowners who protect soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat while managing productive land.
When will the winner of the 2026 award be announced?
November 12 at the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection meeting.