2026 Leopold Conservation Award Winner: Greg and Janis Thoren
By Lyndi Allen • July 30, 2026
Congratulations to Greg and Janis Thoren of Stockton, Illinois, the 2026 Illinois Leopold Conservation Award recipients. The Leopold Conservation Award honors farmers, ranchers, and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water resources, and wildlife habitat on working land. This award is one of the highest honors in agriculture for environmental stewardship.
On their farm in Jo Daviess County, the Thorens raise corn, soybeans, and beef cattle while experimenting with modern agronomic advances and bringing new life to old practices.
Their farm combines no-till, cover crops, diverse crop rotations, adaptive grazing, and innovative virtual fencing technology to improve soil health, protect water quality, and create wildlife habitat. Just as importantly, Greg shares what he's learned with fellow farmers, helping conservation practices spread far beyond his own fields.









