Resolution 30-02A 

WHEREAS, the best use for arable land in Saskatchewan is for agricultural purposes; and

WHEREAS, much of the land owned by Ducks Unlimited and Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation has uncontrolled weed growth; WHEREAS, non arable land is much better suited for the purpose of Ducks Unlimited and The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation;

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that Ducks Unlimited and The Saskatchewan Wildlife Federation not be allowed to purchase any more arable land in Saskatchewan;

Response From the Hon. Clay Serby:

We believe Saskatchewan Citizens support land use that meets our public policy goals with respect to both agriculture and the environment.

We already know that the Crown land administered by Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization (SAFRR) on behalf of Saskatchewan citizens helps to sustain wildlife, as well as contribute to agriculture.

We also believe that groups who have plans to utilize agricultural land for conservation/environmental purposes have to have input from and the support of agricultural stakeholders for conservation projects to be successful. We will continue to work with SARM, farm groups, and conservation groups to ensure land use policies meet all our goals – including growing our agriculture industries so they will help to contribute more to the provincial economy.

We have also indicated to Ducks Unlimited (DU) that conservation projects that can meet agricultural objectives while also meeting conservation goals, are more likely to be acceptable to the agricultural community and therefore more sustainable projects.