Manitoba is looking for feedback online, on a broad range of agriculture sector issues and opportunities from producers and industry.
Agriculture and Resource Development Minister Blaine Pedersen says they’re committed to bringing the voices of farmers forward.
“Engaging with farmers allows us to collect important information and make informed decisions and recommendations with my provincial and federal colleagues across the country this October at the annual conference of ministers of agriculture.”
There are four areas the province wants input on, business risk management, market opportunities, innovation and technology, and resiliency.
Business risk management programs are important to help producers manage their risk. For the past two years, producer feedback suggests the existing program isn’t effective for some sectors.
As Manitoba’s Ag industry is export-driven, the province wants to ensure producers and processors have continued access to current and new market opportunities.
Innovation continues to be, more and more, a part of the agriculture and agri-food sector. Technology also can help with preparing for and mitigating risks, addressing labour shortages, improving animal health and welfare, and building increased sustainability to the sector. The government is looking for the public’s input to help shape Manitoba’s capacity through the use of Ag Action Manitoba programs.
With COVID-19 impacting all Manitobans, including the food supply chain, the province is looking for public input to help ensure the sector continues to be resilient in the face of future disruptions and crisis.
The online engagement follows a week-long, in-person tour by the minister which included multiple stops in rural Manitoba in an open dialogue format.
To take part in the online engagement, click here.
The online engagement closes Tuesday, September 1st.