Released on June 14, 2013
Hanley Area Ranchers Recognized for Environmental Stewardship
Today, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart offered congratulations to Allen and Lillian Patkau, provincial winners of the 2013 Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA).
The Environmental Stewardship Award is presented each year by the Saskatchewan Stock Growers Association (SSGA), in partnership with Ducks Unlimited and MNP, to a cattle producer who demonstrates excellence in environmental stewardship in the ranching industry.
“Allen and Lillian Patkau are true environmental stewards and this is well-deserved recognition for their excellence in going above and beyond what is considered standard best practice,” Stewart said. “They set a positive example for fellow producers and pave the way for the next generation. Our government has long supported farmers and ranchers who demonstrate exceptional environmental stewardship. Saskatchewan producers are undoubtedly the best managers of the province’s pastures.”
The Patkaus own and operate Sandy Arrow Ranch Ltd., located west of Hanley. For more than three decades, they have slowly converted their land to grass and have used best management practices to ensure the most efficient use of water and soil. They have been involved in the Ministry of Agriculture’s Environmental Farm Plan program, in addition to being federal pasture patrons. Allen is also part of the Minister’s advisory committee for the federal pasture transition, which provides advice and recommendations on the transition of the 60 federal community pastures to the province by 2018.
“As cattle producers, protecting and nurturing the land we make our living on has been our main focus,” Patkau said. “Making sure we are doing right by the land today will help make sure it survives and thrives for years to come. We are honoured to be recognized for our environmental efforts and will continue to work to improve the land.”
“As we celebrate our 100th annual general meeting, we also celebrate the great work being done in the agriculture industry,” SSGA General Manager Chad MacPherson said. “The TESA recognizes outstanding Saskatchewan producers for their continued excellence in environmental stewardship.”
As Saskatchewan TESA award winners, the Patkaus qualify for the national TESA award, to be presented by the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association at their semi-annual meeting August 13-15, 2013 in London, Ontario.
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For more information, contact:
Charlotte McGraw
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-6969
Email: charlotte.mcgraw@gov.sk.ca