2026 TESA Nominees
For 30 years, The Environmental Stewardship Award (TESA) has recognized beef producers who explore innovative ways to protect, preserve, and enhance their operations and the environment simultaneously. These producers go above and beyond in their efforts to exemplify significant innovation and attention to a wide range of environmental aspects in their operations.
Meet this year’s regional recipients, who will compete at the national level and are invited to attend the Canadian Beef Industry Conference which will be held in Winnipeg, Manitoba, August 18-20. The most outstanding regional nominee will be recognized as the National Environmental Stewardship Award recipient. We’d like to thank our long-standing TESA judges from Ducks Unlimited Canada, Alberta Conservation Association (ACA), Cows & Fish, Birds Canada, Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB), 2025 TESA recipients Don and Geraldine Bettle, and current ENV Chair Karla Hicks.
The Canadian Cattle Association (CCA) is proud of the significant amount of work being done by cattle producers across Canada to improve sustainability and environmental stewardship and commends the efforts of all TESA nominees.
Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor, MNP and Foundation Partners, Ducks Unlimited, Birds Canada, and the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB).
British Columbia – Chilco Ranch – Miller Ranches, The Miller & Grier Families
Chilco Ranch–Miller Ranches is a fourth-generation family operation in Hanceville that blends traditional ranching values with modern innovation. Managing 1,000 pairs of Hereford cattle across 170,000 acres, the Miller and Grier families prioritize sustainability through rotational grazing, soil health improvement, and careful land stewardship. Advanced water-monitoring technology helps protect wildlife, aquatic ecosystems, and riparian areas while supporting efficient ranch management. Deep community involvement, including participation in local organizations and 4-H, reflects their commitment to future generations. Looking ahead, the ranch plans to adopt virtual fencing, drones, and enhance water systems, ensuring long-term conservation, efficiency, and family-centered sustainability.
To Learn more about Chilco Ranch – Miller Ranches, click HERE.
Alberta – Walton Land and Cattle, Ron & Kim Walton
Walton Land and Cattle, located in Alberta’s drought-prone Special Area No. 2, demonstrates how environmental stewardship and agricultural success can work hand in hand. Spanning 8,800 acres with a 300 head of cow calf pairs, the Walton family has built resilience through conservative grazing, annual regrassing efforts, and a 21-kilometre water distribution system. Their commitment to preserving native prairie, shelterbelts, and wildlife habitat supports diverse species, including sharp-tailed grouse and Hungarian partridge. Guided by generations of experience, they manage the land with a long-term perspective, prioritizing ecosystem health, drought resilience, and conservation to leave a stronger legacy for future generations.
To learn more about Walton Land and Cattle, Click HERE.
Saskatchewan – Ralph & Linda Corcoran
Ralph and Linda Corcoran built their ranching legacy from a few cows on rented land into a thriving operation focused on holistic management and sustainability. After converting all cultivated land to grass, they adopted high stock density grazing and planned pasture rotations, improving forage productivity, biodiversity, and soil health. Their stewardship philosophy balances people, land, and profits, supported by adaptive grazing plans and ongoing research partnerships. The ranch’s success has been measured through increased bird populations, improved ecosystem health, and resilience during challenging periods such as the BSE crisis. In 2026, they passed the ranch to grandson Ty, ensuring their conservation-minded legacy continues.
To learn more about Ralph & Linda Corcoran, click HERE.
Manitoba – English Ranching Ltd., Connor & Kyla English
The English family has farmed in Manitoba since 1898 and has built a six-generation operation focused on regenerative agriculture and sustainable grazing. Managing nearly 1,100 acres and a herd of 320 breeding cows, they use total grazing practices that emphasize high-density, short-duration grazing, soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. Cattle are moved frequently, riparian areas are protected through fencing and pipeline-fed water systems, and innovative practices such as cover crops and diverted grocery waste reduce environmental impact. Looking ahead, the family plans to expand water infrastructure, shelterbelts, and potentially adopt virtual fencing, ensuring resilience while preserving a legacy of stewardship and adaptation.
To learn more about English Ranching Ltd., Click HERE.
Ontario – MacArthur Farms, Will & Tara MacArthur & Family
The MacArthur family has built a sustainable and profitable farming operation by embracing extended grazing, soil health, and natural livestock management. Led by Will MacArthur’s commitment to challenging conventional practices, the farm manages about 100 cow-calf pairs, stocker cattle, poultry, and crop acres while keeping cattle grazing for more than 300 days each year. Through rotational grazing, cover crops, virtual fencing, and water stewardship, they reduce inputs and improve environmental outcomes. Partnerships with industry organizations and mentors have supported their progress. Guided by a philosophy of working with nature, the MacArthurs aim to leave the land healthier and more resilient for future generations.
To learn more about MacArthur Farms, click HERE.
Quebec – Drury Farms, Victor Drury
The Drury family has built a regenerative cattle operation in Quebec’s Outaouais region through innovation, stewardship, and a commitment to leaving the land better than they found it. Since purchasing the original 200 acres in 1974, the farm has grown to 900 owned acres, supporting 300 Red Angus cows. Rotational grazing, zero-tillage management, composting, and an extensive water system have improved forage productivity, soil health, and environmental outcomes. The family actively supports wildlife habitat, pollinator initiatives, and community engagement while exploring new opportunities such as virtual fencing and forestry partnerships. Their success demonstrates how collaboration, sustainability, and open-minded management can strengthen both agriculture and ecosystems.
To learn more about Drury Farms, click HERE.