Jeff & Jolene Steffen Receive Hugh Hammond Bennett National Producer Award
Jeff and Jolene Steffen were officially awarded the 2025 Hugh Hammond Bennett National Producer Award, presented by the National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP) during the 2026 NACD Annual Meeting in San Antonio, Texas. The award is the highest producer honor presented by the National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP). The Steffens were selected as recipients of the Northern Plains Regional Producer Award and subsequently recognized as the national honorees for 2025 from among the regional winners.
Nominated by NRCS and supported locally by District Conservationist Bekah Poppe, the Steffens were selected for their innovative no-till system, diverse rotations, livestock integration, on-farm research, and dedication to mentoring other producers.
The Hugh Hammond Bennett Award for Conservation Excellence is given by the National Conservation Planning Partnership (NCPP), which includes the National Association of Conservation Districts (NACD), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), National Association of State Conservation Agencies (NASCA), National Conservation District Employees Association (NCDEA), and National Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils (NARCDC). The award honors producers and conservation planners who demonstrate exceptional leadership and achievements in conservation planning and implementation—continuing the legacy of Hugh Hammond Bennett, widely regarded as the “father of soil conservation.”
The award was presented during the NACD Appreciation Banquet on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, where NCPP leaders recognized the Steffens for their exceptional leadership in conservation planning, soil health innovation, and community mentorship. Conservation partners echoed this recognition, with Lewis & Clark NRD Board Member Matt Weinandt noting that “Jeff and Jolene Steffen exemplify what it means to be true stewards of the land.”
A Legacy of Conservation Excellence
For more than 40 years, Jeff and Jolene Steffen have built a conservation-focused, soil-health-driven farming system on their 600-acre operation in Crofton, Nebraska. Their farming system features include continuous no‑till, diverse crop rotations (corn, oats, soybeans, buckwheat, cereal rye, peas), multi-species and overwintering cover crops, livestock integration, biological-based management, data-driven decision‑making focused on ROI and long-term sustainability.
Their conservation plan was originally initiated in the early 1990s and has been continuously revised based on field observations, University Extension insights, research collaborations, agronomist input, and peer exchanges.
The Steffens’ practices have led to measurable outcomes, including reduced nitrogen use, decreased herbicide inputs, elimination of insecticides since 2011, increased water infiltration, improved nutrient cycling, and enhanced biological activity. Their backyard borders the Bow Creek, a treasured family landmark, further motivating their efforts to enhance water quality and reduce erosion.
Lewis & Clark NRD General Manager Annette Sudbeck emphasized the Steffens’ influence beyond their own operation, sharing: “What makes Jeff and Jolene truly remarkable is not only how they manage their own farm, but how generously they share their experiences with others.”
Partnerships, Research, and Mentorship
The Steffens are deeply involved in conservation on their farm, including cover crops, conservation crop rotation, compost and compost extract applications, soil sampling and biologicals, and incorporating livestock. They have worked with conservation program development, including USDA CIG beta‑testing of the FARMS Soil Evaluation Tool and providing feedback on Comprehensive Soil Health Management Plans.
They mentor farmers locally and nationally, contribute to the Bow Creek Watershed Project, and regularly present to students from elementary school through university. Bow Creek Watershed Coordinator Becky Ravenkamp highlighted their critical role, stating: “Jeff and Jolene are a powerful voice for conservation and soil health… Without them, our project would not be as successful.”
Nebraska Representation
Nebraska was well represented at the NACD Annual Meeting, with three national awards presented to Nebraskans, including:
- Jeff & Jolene Steffen – Hugh Hammond Bennett National Producer Award
- Andy Bishop – NACD Friend of Conservation Award
- Orval Gigstad – NACD Hall of Distinction
Local, state, and federal representatives from Nebraska attended the banquet and conference sessions, emphasizing the state’s strong leadership in agricultural conservation, resource management, and producer engagement.
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