Ducks Unlimited, Florida Cattlemen’s Association Partner to Conserve Wetlands
New conservation partnership dedicated to conserve Florida’s wetlands and wildlife while keeping agricultural lands in production
January 23, 2024 •
2
min read
Michael Martin
Ducks Unlimited (DU) and the Florida Cattlemen’s Association proudly announce a new conservation partnership to conserve Florida’s wetlands and wildlife while keeping agricultural lands in production.
The partnership highlights shared support for land and wetlands conservation funding in Florida, conservation easements as tools to protect agricultural lands and the need to keep working lands working.
Across the continent, partnerships among farmers, ranchers and Ducks Unlimited are driving conservation and helping producers stay profitable while creating wildlife habitat and protecting wetlands.
"DU members and ranching families alike know protecting wildlife habitat and working lands go hand in hand," said Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam. "Florida cattlemen have been raising beef and providing quality wildlife habitat for over 500 years on this peninsula. Working with the Florida Cattlemen’s Association, we ensure our natural resources and agricultural lands are provided for. We look forward to combining our legacy and expertise in protecting agricultural and working lands while collaborating with producers to restore and enhance wetlands and waterfowl habitats.”
Farm and ranchlands have long been important to Florida’s natural and cultural heritage. In addition to supporting cattle and other agricultural commodities, these landscapes provide ecological benefits, including habitat for wildlife, wetlands protection, and water storage.
“Long before the founding of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association 90 years ago, the hearty individuals who tended cattle on our Peninsula were not only avid sportsmen but true stewards of the land,” said Florida Cattlemen’s Association President Pat Durden, “Those of us who carry on the legacy of cattle ranching, and conservation are honored to partner with an organization like DU. Like the members of FCA, those associated with DU have walked the walk of protecting working lands and enhancing wildlife habitat for generations, and fully understand that Cows Keep Florida Green.”
About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world's largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America's continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 18 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation For A Continent capital campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org.
About the Florida Cattlemen's Association:
The Florida Cattlemen's Association (FCA) is a statewide nonprofit organization established in 1934. The FCA is devoted entirely and exclusively to promoting and protecting the ability of cattlemen members to produce and market their products. FCA members represent a multitude of commodities as Florida cattle producers have diversified their operations. The protection of private property rights is paramount in all policies supported by the Florida Cattlemen’s Association. The FCA supports the availability of conservation easements for agricultural working lands to ensure the sustainability of our food and fiber supply.
Media Contact:
Emily Austin
601-206-5438
