Celebrating the cream of the crop

One group of land stewards has remained a constant partner since DUC was founded in 1938. Deeply rooted in Canada’s soils, they have made conservation a priority and part of their business. As DUC enters its 85th year, we are celebrating Canadian farmers and ranchers and their steadfast dedication to conserving our important natural landscapes.

DUC continues working with agricultural communities on various initiatives that create the greatest landscape-level impact. Most recently, we’ve partnered with Dairy Farmers of Canada (DFC), another hardworking organization founded in the 1930s. Like us, they are taking on the challenges of a changing climate and supporting the adoption of more sustainable practices on dairy farms across Canada.

The work we are doing together has an impact. With DFC’s goal of continuous improvement and DUC’s expertise in habitat conservation, we are implementing on-farm actions that benefit dairy farmers, while enhancing biodiversity and creating resilient landscapes and healthy communities.

“As we step into our 85th year, I am proud to say that Dairy Farmers of Canada is once again coming on board to help us deliver more on-farm conservation projects,” says Paul Thoroughgood, DUC’s national sustainability manager. “Without the support of the agricultural community and organizations like Dairy Farmers of Canada, we could not meet our habitat conservation goals.”

DUC wants Canadians to know that dairy farms produce more than just food. They also provide habitat for wildlife and enhance biodiversity both above and below the ground. And with our ongoing partnership, they will continue to do even more.

“Partnering with Ducks Unlimited Canada has helped dairy farmers rehabilitate, protect, and preserve plant and wildlife habitats across the country,” says Pierre Lampron, president of Dairy Farmers of Canada. “DFC is honoured to have played a part in Ducks Unlimited Canada’s 85-year history, and we are excited for what the future has in store for both our organizations.”

As we look ahead to the next 85 years, we know one thing will remain unchanged: the unwavering partnership between conservation and agriculture. And together, we will continue finding nature-based solutions that meet the growing demand for positive environmental outcomes while producing abundant and healthy food.