Model Farm Network
The Model Farm Network supports farmers in the Aspen Parkland to test and prove sustainable practices in real-world conditions. By working together, we are helping show what sustainable agriculture looks like — and what it can deliver over time.
What is a Model Farm?
A Model Farm is a working farm that demonstrates how sustainable agriculture practices can succeed as a viable, profitable business.
Each farm applies practical, regionally relevant approaches — generating clear, local evidence that these practices can support productivity, profitability and long-term resilience.
The network is rooted in the Aspen Parkland, a highly productive agricultural region spanning Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. These landscapes are not only central to Canadian food production, but also hold significant potential to store carbon and support climate resilience, influence water quality and quantity, and preserve habitat to enhance biodiversity.
How it Works
Farmers co-develop a tailored Sustainability Plan for their operation, reflecting their goals, soils, climate and cropping systems. These plans guide the implementation of practices such as reduced soil disturbance, crop diversification and soil health management.
Each farm acts as a production system and a source of practical insight — helping build a clearer picture of what works across the region.
The Model Farm Network combines technical expertise, financial support and ongoing monitoring to help farmers adopt and refine sustainable practices.
Just as importantly, it connects farmers with one another — creating opportunities to share experiences, exchange ideas and build confidence in new approaches over time.
A Partnership Approach
The network is delivered through a partnership between Nature United and Collective Impact Agriculture, working alongside producers and regional partners.
Together, partners provide consistent support, coordinate across farms, and track outcomes — helping ensure that insights from individual operations can inform broader change across the Prairies.
Learn More
For more information about the Model Farm Network, please contact Warren McAuley, Nature United's Prairies Agriculture Program Manager.
Email: warren.mcauley@natureunited.ca
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