Holdanca Farms honoured with national environmental stewardship award

Holdanca Farms, of Wallace Bay, Nova Scotia, has been announced as the recipient of The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) for 2024.

The award highlights the exceptional efforts of John and Maria Duynisveld, the father-daughter team behind Holdanca Farms, in promoting sustainable agricultural practices while enhancing the local environment.

The Duynisvelds manage a diverse operation that includes grass-fed beef, cattle, sheep, pastured pigs, and poultry. They also offer custom grazing services for up to 150 head of beef cattle annually. Their 500-acre farm is a model of environmental stewardship, with 250 acres dedicated to a biodiverse native woodlot and the remaining 250 acres in long-term pasture production.

Nova Scotia’s North Shore, where Holdanca Farms is situated, is a crucial habitat for migratory birds. The Duynisvelds have documented over 1,000 wild species on their farm, including more than thirty threatened or endangered species. They take proactive measures to protect those species, such as providing safe nesting spaces for barn swallows and avoiding forage cutting during nesting periods. Their commitment to preserving wildlife habits underscores their belief in the importance of protecting native species for future generations.

The award was presented at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC) by Mike Duguid, co-chair of the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA)’s Environment Committee, and Kelleen Tait, Agriculture Services Leader with MNP. Holdanca Farms was selected from six regional nominees across Canada, each demonstrating outstanding dedication to environmental stewardship.

“The Duynisvelds truly exemplify land and wildlife stewardship,” says Duguid. “Holdanca Farms is a testament to how responsible farming practices can coexist with environmental conservation. We congratulate all nominees for their remarkable contributions to sustainable farming across Canada.”

The CCA extends its gratitude to Platinum Sponsor MNP, and Foundational Partners Ducks Unlimited Canada, Birds Canada, and the Canadian RoundTable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB), for their support of the TESA program. Special thanks also go to the judging committee, including Karli Reimer with Ducks Unlimited Canada, Norine Ambrose with Cows & Fish, Doug and Linda Wray, 2023 TESA recipients, and Brad Downey with the Alberta Conservation Association.