During his 42 years as a member of the Ontario Department of Agriculture, Reg Duncan established a pattern for the extension service that was copied in most provinces in Canada.

While an agricultural representative, he scored a number of notable firsts. Among other distinguished achievements, he helped form Ontario’s first School Fair; shared with three others the honour of forming the first Junior Farmers' Association, and years before the 4-H emblem was adopted, organized the first Boys Club.

As the first director of the Agricultural Representative’s Branch, his actions were motivated by the conviction that members of his staff should be capable of interpreting the latest scientific information and transmitting it to the men on the land.

When the Canadian Council of Boys and Girls Clubs was organized, he was elected the first president, and in that capacity, played a leading role in determining the policies that have guided the destinies of that organization.