Saskatchewan may have a more diversified economy than was once the case, but agriculture remains an important element.
That was the message those attending a Steaks and Stems agriculture producer appreciation night from guest speak John Gormley last week.
Gormley told producers they should recognize their contribution, noting that there is a “debt this province owes to each of you.”
The long-time radio talk show host, lawyer and former MP said farmers have long shown a resilience, a willingness to take risks, and a work ethic to be successful which has translated to a vibrant agricultural sector.
It’s an aspect of farming Gormley said, many city dwellers will never fully understand.
As a result of farmer efforts from the 1950s through to the 1980s “as well agriculture, we Saskatchewan,” he said.
Since that time economic sectors such as oil and gas, and mining have certainly gained importance, but the farm sector remains vital.
Gormley said today the provincial economy is diversified along the lines for the three “F’s”; food, fuel and fertilizer.
But “farming still punches well above its weight in Saskatchewan,” he said.
In many instances Saskatchewan is a world leader in agriculture including producing 65 per cent of lentils exported in the world, 54 per cent of peas, 34 per cent of durum, and 32 per cent of flax.
“The province is so diverse in agriculture we are a critical food producer,” said Gormley.
The strength of agriculture has now expanded to other sectors.
Gormley said the province’s resource base in areas such as potash and uranium are certainly positive for the long term.
There are currently 400 nuclear power plants under consideration around the world which suggests uranium will be in demand.
“Will there will be a place for uranium? You bet there will,” he continued.
And the world will require fertilizer.
“Potash remains under $250 (per tonne),” said Gormley, but he added better prices will return. “It’s not a question of if, but when.”
And in terms of exploration for conventional source oil, the numbers expected in 2017 could see Saskatchewan eclipse Alberta in that area, said Gormley.
In general terms the economy has slowed.
“It’s been a challenging two years,” said but Gormley suggested with a now more diversified foundation, the future is still good.
And, he added it helps that the population has shown steady growth every quarter of every year since mid-2006.4
“We’re in another wave of immigration,” said Gormley. “… A growth that is powering our economy.”
