Adamski Family Receives 2024 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award®
The Adamski family of Seymour has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award®, recognizing their exemplary stewardship of the environment through sustainable farming practices. Rick Adamski and Valerie Dantoin, the proprietors of Full Circle Farm, were honored at the Wisconsin Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection meeting on November 14, where the award’s $10,000 prize was announced.
The Leopold Conservation Award is presented to landowners who demonstrate exceptional management of soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitat on working lands. The award, rooted in the legacy of conservationist Aldo Leopold, underscores the ethical relationship between landowners and their land.
At Full Circle Farm, a 240-acre operation in Shawano County, the Adamskis employ a managed grazing system that not only enhances soil health but also improves resilience against droughts and floods. Their commitment to organic farming and biodiversity is evident, as their pastures exhibit a remarkable two percent higher organic matter compared to conventional fields.
The family’s next generation is equally invested in sustainability, with their son Andrew leading initiatives on diversified farming and agroecological practices. Full Circle Farm currently supports around 1,000 consumers through Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) and contributes to local food systems.
Valerie and Rick’s contributions extend beyond their farm; they actively engage in community education through field days and cooperatives aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture. Their efforts have not gone unnoticed, with accolades from agricultural leaders underscoring their role in preserving Wisconsin’s agricultural heritage.
As Wisconsin farmers face ongoing challenges, the Adamski family stands as a beacon of innovation and conservation, proving that economic viability and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand.
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Photo credit wtaq.com
