Ducks Unlimited is looking for Alberta farmers and ranchers who want to develop a habitat plan for their farm.
Biologist Kim Schmitt said the organization is looking for 60 to 80 producers who want to develop plans to protect and manage wildlife habitat.
“We’re trying to add value to producers who have an interest in this,” Schmitt said.
Ducks Unlimited biologists are working with six farmers who want to better understand their farm’s natural habitat and how it fits into their farming operations.
“They know their habitat exists, but haven’t spent much time analyzing their wetlands,” he said.
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“When we go there, they’re really excited about it.”
Biologists use aerial maps, farmers’ local knowledge and a visit to the site to create a free comprehensive written evaluation of the land’s biodiversity and options for maintaining or improving wetlands.
Projects available under the On-Farm Wildlife and Biodiversity Planning Service include fencing creeks and riverbeds, changing grazing patterns and restoring wetlands.
Producers must complete the environmental farm plan process before they can participate in the program.
Schmitt said the project is intended to be a simple process to help identify, map and classify wildlife habitat. Once the evaluation is complete and the report written, a package is delivered to the farm with additional contact information on how producers can implement and pay for the recommendations.
“It all comes down to developing a better understanding of the biodiversity on their farms and ranches,” he said.
