Meristem: Crop Science

More Alberta farmers and ranchers are seeking ways to integrate and protect wildlife habitat assets

Natural Advantage the pilot project has become Natural Advantage the program. The On-Farm Wildlife and Biodiversity Planning Service designed for producers seeking a better understanding of the value of habitat and ways to capture its benefits, is building momentum and it is attracting producer interest in the process.

"For some," says program director Kim Schmitt of Ducks Unlimited Canada (DUC), "habitat planning is about values and quality of life, while others may also have concrete business plans based on future land values, agri-tourism, eco-labeling or brand development focused on sustainability. Whatever the reason, the hope is that this initiative will add value by identifying and highlighting producers' habitat assets."

Part of the appeal of Natural Advantage according to producer feedback is that it is a simple process that does not require a major time commitment from producers. DUC biologists work directly with producers to deliver specific information about their on-farm habitat assets as well as recommendations on how to improve these important resources. The final product for producers is a comprehensive written report based on the knowledge gathered, including resource materials and contact information to assist with implementing the report's recommendations.

DUC keeps participants and others up to date with a series of newsletters and feature stories highlighting program progress. Included in this Special Report is an overview of these, including four newsletters as well as a series of feature articles which discuss important developments.

Newsletters:

Feature stories:

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Natural Advantage interest growing

Newsletters:

Feature stories: