Lower Loup NRD Hosts 2026 North Central Land Judging Contest

ORD, Nebraska -- High School students from across a large swath of Nebraska competed in the 2026 North Central Land Judging Contest on Oct. 7, 2026, at the Lower Loup Natural Resources District’s Aagaard Farm near Ord.

Land judging teams from Ansley, Ord, Boone Central, Twin River, St. Edward, Arcadia, Broken Bow, and the Nebraska Ag Academy took part in the contest hosted by the Lower Loup NRD and NRCS.

Land judging challenges students to gain a better understanding of soil structure and land evaluation by teaching them how to recognize the physical features of the soil, determine land capability for crop production, and evaluate management practices necessary for proper stewardship. 

Madden Kleeb of Broken Bow placed first in the individual rankings, followed by Bethany Preister and Kailyn Choat of Boone Central placing second and third, respectively, with Miles Hulinsky of Ord placing fourth.

The winning teams from Ansley, Ord, and Boone Central qualified for the State Land Judging Contest that will take place near Beatrice on Oct. 14, 2026. 

The Lower Loup NRD hosts the North Central Land Judging Contest every two years. 

“We were fortunate to have a great day in terms of the weather this time around,” said Lower Loup NRD Information and Education Coordinator Alan Bartels. “On top of that, all of the 107 students we had onsite were well-behaved, respectful, and focused on the event. I enjoyed seeing scenic Aagaard Farm abuzz with all of those energetic young people, and appreciate their teachers’ dedication in educating them.” 

Congratulations to the winners, and thanks to all the contestants. The Lower Loup NRD also wishes to extend a special thanks to all the Lower Loup NRD and NRCS staff who made the event possible.