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Benziger Family Winery is receiving the first ever Endangered Species Coalition Champion Award for Land Stewardship. The winery is being recognized for its commitment to farming practices that promote sustainability and protect local wildlife.

"We're very pleased to be honoring Benziger Family Winery for its leading role in promoting sustainable farming in the wine industry," said Leda Huta, executive director of the Endangered Species Coalition. "Benziger's 85-acre Sonoma Mountain estate is certified biodynamic and has become a research and teaching center for the cultivation of grapes with more flavor, intensity and site-specific vineyard character," Huta said. "The beauty of our practice of biodynamic farming is that by merely providing a stable and vibrant habitat for wildlife, they do all the hard work for us. The good bugs eat the bad bugs and they also attract many species of birds and owls," said Mike Benziger, adding, "While conventional agriculture does everything to push Mother Nature out of the farm, we welcome her and all her supporting staff. It is a symphony of music at Benziger as you hear the buzzing of the bugs and the chirping of the birds."

Besides creating their own biodynamic wine-grape growing culture on their land, the Benzigers spend time with other vineyard owners working with nature and promoting sustainable and organic farming practices. "It is wonderful to be able to recognize that generosity of their spirit," Huta said. "Environmental stewardship is at the foundation of my family's commitment as winegrowers," said Chris Benziger. "Protecting and stimulating local wildlife is the basis for this commitment."

He said the winery started seeing the immediate benefits of increased wildlife and better tasting wine more than 20 years ago when they first started practicing integrated pest management. "Being recognized as leaders by the Endangered Species Coalition is a great honor for my family and all our growers who are also looking for ways to protect native habitats," added Chris Benziger.

The Endangered Species Coalition hopes that the award will encourage many other landowners to explore sustainable land-management practices that protect wildlife as well as open spaces in local communities. The coalition continues to work with landowners across the country who are stewards of their land and are protecting endangered wildlife, fish and plants.

On Saturday, Sept. 6, the coalition is hosting a celebration to commemorate people and businesses throughout the state who are champions in protecting California's wildlife and wild places.

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