By Blake Jackson
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball, alongside the Sand County Foundation, announced that Sunnyside Farms, located in Scipio Center, has won the New York Agricultural Environmental Management (AEM)-Leopold Conservation Award.
This prestigious award recognizes farmers and forestland owners who excel in managing soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats on their land.
Owned by brothers Greg and Neil Rejman, Sunnyside Farms operates over 7,500 acres between Cayuga and Owasco Lakes and is home to approximately 5,000 dairy cows, along with 4,000 replacement stock.
The farm has a strong focus on conservation practices, working to protect water quality and mitigate climate impacts. Their efforts have included long-term participation in AEM, in partnership with the Cayuga County Soil and Water Conservation District.
Rejmans have also been proactive in sharing their conservation knowledge, regularly hosting research initiatives, training sessions, and tours for state agencies, industry professionals, and the local community.
During the award ceremony on October 10, Commissioner Ball praised the Rejmans, saying, “New York’s AEM-Leopold Conservation Award is an annual opportunity to recognize landowners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water, and wildlife habitat management and who are dedicated to leaving the land better than how they found it, each and every day."
“Farms like Sunnyside play a central role in feeding our families while also protecting soil and water quality in communities across New York State," said New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar. "Congratulations to Sunnyside Farms for their well-deserved AEM-Leopold Conservation Award, which recognizes dedication to environmental stewardship, soil conservation, and storm resiliency to help sustain their farm for future generations.”
Kevin McAleese, President and CEO of the Sand County Foundation, added, “These award recipients are examples of how Aldo Leopold’s land ethic is alive and well today. Their dedication to conservation shows how individuals can improve the health of the land while producing food and fiber.”
Sand County Foundation presents a $10,000 cash prize to the winning farm, supported by numerous sponsors, including American Farmland Trust, New York Farm Bureau, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Cornell Cooperative Extension, among others.
Photo Credit: sand-county-foundation
Categories: New York, Government & Policy