According to an article in the Midwest Messenger, Cork and Janet Worth near Nordon were recently awarded the 2024 Leopold Conservation award. More than 22,000 trees have been planted on the Worth Ranch since 1971. the ranch has used a specific ratio of cows per acre and pasture rotation to improve the forage. At this time they pasture cattle for five local families during the grazing season. The Worth’s saw growing native prairie and perennial grass as the best use of their land from economic and environmental standpoints. They also are diligent about controlling noxious weeds on the ranch and making sure pastures have adequate water for livestock. The Leopold award is given in honor of renowned conservationist Aldo Leopold.