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.


Learn more about the Thoren farm and their practices.


Not a member?

Become one today!

SHARE THIS

Latest Posts

Four people posing in front of the U.S. Capitol at sunset
By Lyndi Allen • November 5, 2026
IL Corn's GrassRoots Orientation to Washington, D.C. program allows Illinois farmers and agricultural professionals to see firsthand how agricultural policy is shaped.
U.S. Capitol building at sunrise, viewed from a low angle with a yellow road line leading toward it
By Brad Stotler and Lyndi Allen • November 5, 2026
Illinois voters delivered decisive victories for Democrats across the state, expanding the party’s supermajorities in the General Assembly and electing a new U.S. Senator.
National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center
By Tara Desmond • November 5, 2026
Fall Nitrogen, President Trump, New Corn uses expansion and more - check out October corn news you missed.
advertisement of we are 96 at an outdoor event
By Tara Desmond & Brownfield Ag • November 5, 2026
New Illinois Farm Families research shows consumer recognition up 10 points since 2021, with farmers still ranked the most trusted profession.
Award winners from 2025 ICGA Annual Meeting
By Lindsay Croke • October 30, 2026
IL Corn's Annual Meeting to be Held 11/24
collin and jared
By Brownfield & Tara • October 29, 2026
Illinois FFA State VP Collin Johnson shares how the IL Corn checkoff partnership builds the next generation of ag advocates.
Sharon Chung, Gracie Pierson, and Rod Weinzierl
By Lyndi Allen • October 29, 2026
IL Corn Growers Association (ICGA) connected with lawmakers and candidates this month through farm visits, renewable fuel events and bioeconomy investments.
sky
By Aerterra and Tara Desmond • October 29, 2026
Illinois ranks 48th for air quality but indoor air is often worse. See how corn-based ethanol and PLA air filters help Illinois breathe easier.
picture of corn at harvest
By Tara Desmond • October 29, 2026
6 Illinois farmers share memories during harvest
Rep. Eric Sorensen hosting an E15 press event with IL Corn and Illinois Farm Bureau
By Lyndi Allen • October 29, 2026
Illinois drivers face higher gas prices than the national average. Learn how ethanol and year-round E15 access could lower costs, support farmers, and boost demand for Illinois corn.
Show More