The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) has named Downey Ranch in Wamego, Kansas, as the 2024 National Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) winner. This prestigious award recognizes cattle producers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to land stewardship and conservation practices. The honor was presented to Barb Downey and her husband, Joe Carpenter, during CattleCon 2025 in San Antonio.
Commitment to Sustainable Ranching
Nestled in the Kansas Flint Hills, Downey Ranch operates as a commercial cow-calf operation dedicated to sustainable land management. Owners Barb Downey and Joe Carpenter have implemented a range of innovative grazing techniques to improve rangeland health while reducing reliance on harvested forages. Through rotational grazing and a novel bale grazing program, they efficiently meet their cattle’s nutritional needs with minimal supplemental feed.
Prescribed burning is another key practice at Downey Ranch, promoting a diverse mix of grass species and preventing woody plant encroachment. The family has also adopted advanced technology to enhance cattle well-being, improve land management, and streamline labor efficiency. Beyond their own operation, Barb and Joe actively share their knowledge by hosting industry tours for students, fellow producers, and stakeholders.
“Our goal is to ensure that the land we care for today remains productive and healthy for future generations,” said Barb Downey. “Everything we do is in service to that mission.”
Recognizing Conservation Leadership
Since its establishment in 1991, ESAP has highlighted exceptional land stewardship within the cattle industry. Each year, regional award winners are selected, with one earning the national title. NCBA President Mark Eisele emphasized the critical role ranchers play in conservation efforts.
2024 Regional Winners
- Region I: Angus Glen Farms, LLC, Watkins Glen, New York
- Region II: Kempfer Cattle Company, Deer Park, Florida
- Region III: Little Timber Farms, Blackduck, Minnesota
- Region IV: Blue Ranch, Moore County, Texas
- Region V: LeValley Ranch, Hotchkiss, Colorado
- Region VI: Cottonwood Ranch, Wells, Nevada
- Region VII: Downey Ranch, Wamego, Kansas
Previous National ESAP Honorees
- 2023: G Bar C Ranch, Texas
- 2022: Carter Cattle Company, LLC, Alabama
- 2021: JY Ferry & Son, Inc., Utah
- 2020: Beatty Canyon Ranch, Colorado
- 2019: Blackbeard’s Ranch, Florida
Industry Support for Environmental Stewardship
ESAP is made possible through the support of sponsors who share the beef industry’s dedication to environmental sustainability. Key sponsors include the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service, Corteva Agriscience, and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. These organizations collaborate with NCBA to promote responsible stewardship throughout the beef supply chain.
For more information about the Environmental Stewardship Award Program, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org.
