Wiltse Family Wins Kansas Leopold Conservation Award for Regen Ag
TL;DR: The Wiltse family in Kansas transformed conventional cropland into a thriving regenerative agriculture system, demonstrating profitable and ecologically sound farming without external subsidies.
- Rotational grazing improves soil health and drought resilience.
- Transitioned over 500 acres from crops to native grasses.
- Infrastructure investments support efficient livestock management.
- Limited cash crops serve dual purpose as forage.
- Mentoring and sharing knowledge with other landowners.
Why it matters: This case study demonstrates a successful model for profitable regenerative agriculture, offering practical strategies for enhancing soil health, biodiversity, and drought resilience while reducing reliance on commercial inputs and subsidies.
Do this next: Explore adaptive rotational grazing methods to improve your soil health and pasture productivity.
Recommended for: Farmers, ranchers, and land managers interested in implementing profitable and ecologically sound regenerative agriculture practices.
The Kevin Wiltse family from Timken, Kansas, received the 2025 Kansas Leopold Conservation Award for their pioneering regenerative agriculture practices on their farm. Kevin and Amanda Wiltse have transformed over 500 acres of conventional cropland into native perennial grasses and forbs without relying on cost-share assistance. This transition began after Kevin's early career focus on crop yields shifted following a conservation-focused trip, leading him to challenge conventional farming methods. Key strategies include adaptive rotational grazing of livestock on perennial grasses and cover crops, which has improved soil health, structure, water retention, and drought resilience. Pastures remained green during recent droughts, a testament to enhanced soil restoration. Infrastructure investments include 30,000 feet of water lines to stock tanks and fencing field borders planted with diverse perennial vegetation, creating travel lanes for cattle while attracting pollinators and pheasants. Current cash crops are limited to milo, triticale, and rye, which serve dual purposes as forage for livestock and wildlife. The large, intact land base facilitates efficient livestock movement. Kevin credits rotational grazing for accelerating soil recovery and increasing biodiversity, with more grass supporting greater wildlife and insect populations as key success indicators. Beyond their farm, the Wiltses mentor other landowners, speak at engagements, and share insights sought by regenerative agriculture experts. Dan Meyerhoff, Kansas Association of Conservation Districts Executive Director, praised their dedication to soil health, pollinator and wildlife habitat, and willingness to disseminate knowledge. This case demonstrates a profitable model less dependent on commercial inputs and subsidies, balancing productivity with ecological integrity through specific, actionable methods like transitioning fields sequentially via cover crops and grazing to activate dormant native seeds.