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The American Billionaire Taking Over BC Ranches
Episode 515th September 2025 • The Central Park Farms Podcast • Kendall Ballantine
00:00:00 00:13:12

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In this episode, I’m digging into something that struck a nerve, not just with me, but with so many of you who messaged after I posted about our drive through Douglas Lake Ranch.

This isn’t just about one beautiful, historic ranch in British Columbia. It’s about who owns our farmland, and what that means for the future of food, farming, and financial sustainability in Canada.

I’m sharing what I’ve learned about the foreign ownership of Canada’s largest cattle ranch, the loopholes in our provincial policies, and why this hits so close to home for me, as someone farming leased land and trying to build something lasting.

We’ll chat about:

  • The billionaire U.S. owner of Douglas Lake Ranch (and his surprising connection to Walmart)
  • Why BC is seeing more foreign land ownership than other provinces
  • What this means for Canadian farmers, Indigenous rights, and food security
  • The difference between buying farmland for passion vs. profit
  • Why I believe this topic deserves more national attention and legal reform

This episode is short but important, and I’d love to hear your take. Are we doing enough to protect our farmland and food systems?

Key Takeaways:

  • Douglas Lake Ranch is owned by a foreign billionaire with deep ties to U.S. corporate wealth
  • BC currently has no cap on how many acres can be purchased by foreign interests
  • Foreign ownership could have long-term effects on food security and local economies
  • We need federal standards and public conversations about protecting farmland

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

Have thoughts on this? I want to hear them. DM me on Instagram @CentralParkFarms or reply to our newsletter. Your voice matters.

Resources Mentioned

Douglas Lake Ranch Website – Learn more about the ranch’s history and ownership.

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