Pierre, SD, USA / DRGNews
Jan 7, 2021 6:56 AM
Agriculture has always been at the heart of First Dakota National Bank since it opened its doors in 1872. It is that commitment to agriculture and rural communities that led to a $350,000 endowed funding gift for the “First Dakota National Bank Seminar on Agriculture, Finance, and Economic Development” in the South Dakota Agricultural & Rural Leadership program seminar series.
SDARL provides an unparalleled leadership education program for individuals working in agriculture and holding leadership positions in rural communities. The flagship 18-month program features 12 seminars that develop the skills, knowledge, and character of leaders.
“As one of the largest agricultural lenders in the nation, First Dakota has always supported organizations that will have a long-range impact on our rural communities,” said Nate Franzen, President of the Agri-Business Division at First Dakota. “We utilize the SDARL program as part of our e
Nominations and applications are now being accepted for the 2021 South Dakota Leopold Conservation Award
®. The $10,000 award honors ranchers, farmers and forestland owners who go above and beyond in their management of soil health, water quality and wildlife habitat on working land.
Sand County Foundation and national sponsor American Farmland Trust present the Leopold Conservation Award to private landowners in 21 states for extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation. In South Dakota, the award is presented with the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Association and the South Dakota Grassland Coalition. The 2020 recipient of the award was Blair Brothers Angus Ranch of Sturgis.
Given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold, the award recognizes landowners who inspire others with their dedication to land, water and wildlife habitat management on private, working land. In his influential 1949 book, “A Sand County Almanac,” Leopold called for an ethical relat