ASA Honors Soybean Farmers for Conservation Legacy

Regional winners recognized for sustainable farming practices and community outreach

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The American Soybean Association (ASA) has announced the regional winners of the 2026 Conservation Legacy Awards, recognizing soybean farmers for their outstanding environmental achievements and efforts to promote sustainable farming practices. A national selection committee evaluated nominees based on their on-farm conservation legacy and community outreach.

Why it matters

The Conservation Legacy Award program highlights the important role soybean farmers play in producing more sustainable U.S. soybeans through the adoption of conservation practices like no-till, cover crops, and water management strategies. By showcasing these best practices, the program aims to inspire other farmers to implement similar sustainability measures on their own operations.

The details

The 2026 regional Conservation Legacy Award winners are: Lewis Unruh of Peabody, Kansas (Midwest Region), Jon and Cathy Nelson of Lake Preston, South Dakota (Upper Midwest Region), James 'Jay' Baxter of Georgetown, Delaware (Northeast Region), and Alex Forsbach of Savannah, Tennessee (South Region). These farmers were recognized for their long-term commitment to land stewardship, including improving soil health, reducing erosion, and protecting water quality through the use of conservation practices across their entire operations.

  • The award winners will be recognized at the annual ASA Awards Celebration during Commodity Classic in San Antonio on Feb. 24, 2026.
  • ASA will begin accepting applications for the 2027 Conservation Legacy Awards this summer.

The players

American Soybean Association (ASA)

A national organization that represents U.S. soybean farmers and promotes the use of sustainable farming practices.

Lewis Unruh

A soybean farmer from Peabody, Kansas who has implemented sustainability practices across 100% of his acreage, including no-till, cover crops, and water management strategies.

Jon and Cathy Nelson

Soybean growers from Lake Preston, South Dakota who have embraced regenerative practices to build a more sustainable and resilient operation for future generations.

James 'Jay' Baxter

A soybean farmer from Georgetown, Delaware who, along with his sister Kristy Malin, runs a family partnership focused on conservation and land stewardship.

Alex Forsbach

A Tennessee soybean grower who has witnessed significant increases in organic matter on his farm through the use of no-till and cover crops, and is committed to educating others about conservation practices.

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What they’re saying

“It gives me great satisfaction to see the changes and improvements to our farmland over the years. The conservation efforts have allowed our farm the chance to be profitable.”

— Lewis Unruh (no-tillfarmer.com)

“By embracing diversity and regenerative practices, we are building a farm that can adapt to change, remain productive and continue to serve both people and the environment well into the future.”

— Jon Nelson (no-tillfarmer.com)

“We're not just leaving assets behind. We were given soil, something to grow. We were given something to love and to steward, and that's what my legacy means.”

— James 'Jay' Baxter (no-tillfarmer.com)

“Conservation has a significant role in creating and carrying out my farming legacy. My children and farm visitors see conservation in action setting a foundation for the future.”

— Alex Forsbach (no-tillfarmer.com)

What’s next

At the annual ASA Awards Celebration during Commodity Classic in San Antonio on Feb. 24, 2026, one of the regional winners will be announced as the national Conservation Legacy Award winner.

The takeaway

The Conservation Legacy Award program showcases how soybean farmers across the country are leading the way in sustainable agriculture, implementing conservation practices that improve soil health, reduce erosion, and protect water quality. These award-winning farmers serve as inspiring examples of how to balance productivity and profitability with environmental stewardship, creating a more sustainable future for the industry.