October is Agriculture Month in Saskatchewan. In recognition of Agriculture Month, the federal and provincial governments are investing in future leaders of the agriculture industry.
While it's been a tough year in terms of flooding, Saskatchewan farmers are weathering the storm and persevering into the future for generations to come.
In light of that fact, the federal and provincial governments have announced they are committing an additional $100,000 in Growing Forward funding to Saskatchewan's Agriculture in the Classroom Program in 2011-12.
"Agriculture is the backbone of this country, and we encourage everyone to celebrate Canadian farmers this month and every month," says Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "We are pleased to support the education of energetic and entrepreneurial new entrants to this sector. Together we will ensure the sector remains successful and prosperous for years to come."
"Our government is committed to supporting our province's youth, who are vital to the future success of the agriculture industry," adds Saskatchewan Ag. Minister Bob Bjornerud. "We are pleased to provide this additional funding to help Agriculture in the Classroom teach our young people about farming and ranching in Saskatchewan."
Agriculture Month celebrates the people who work in the agriculture industry in Saskatchewan. Agriculture is directly or indirectly responsible for roughly one in four jobs and generates billions of dollars for the Saskatchewan economy. This includes areas such farming and ranching, sales, manufacturing, research, veterinary science and processing.
"Saskatchewan farmers, ranchers and everyone involved in the agriculture industry work extremely hard and deserve to be recognized for their efforts," Bjornerud concludes. "Agriculture Month is a great time to thank everyone who contributes to our world-class industry."
Hats off to our farmers!
