DES MOINES, Iowa — Ducks Unlimited and Nestlé Purina PetCare Company have partnered to protect and improve 1,600 acres of wetland and grasslands across Iowa over the next three years through Ducks Unlimited's Living Lakes Initiative, promoting healthy soil, healthy crops and healthy wildlife habitat.

Purina, which operates three pet food manufacturing facilities in Iowa (in Clinton, Fort Dodge and Davenport) and sources high-quality ingredients for its dog and cat food products from farms across the state, has committed $1 million to help promote sustainability of the supply chain and improve recreational use of wetlands and lakes across the state's Prairie Pothole Region.

"At Purina, we're committed to sourcing our ingredients responsibly, which includes promoting water stewardship in our supply chain and contributing positively to the communities where we have a presence," said Joe Sivewright, Purina CEO. "Purina sources high-quality ingredients for our pet food from farms across the U.S., including Iowa, and we also have a significant business presence in the state with three pet food manufacturing facilities, employing more than 1,000 people. Working with our longtime partner Ducks Unlimited, area farmers and other conservation partners to promote water quality and quality of life in this region is a win-win."

This partnership will advance conservation strategies in collaboration with the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship and farmers.

"Farmers work hard to steward their land and the resources needed to grow crops, including ensuring the health of soil and water," said Ducks Unlimited CEO Dale Hall. "Producers in Iowa are proactively seeking ways to enhance the stewardship of key agricultural watersheds. The Prairie Pothole Region is the most critical landscape in North America for breeding waterfowl and is one of DU's highest priorities to restore wetland health. We're glad to have our partner Purina joining the effort."

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