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Online public engagement requested from Manitoba’s ag sector

Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development has launched an online public engagement opportunity seeking feedback on a broad range of agricultural sector issues and opportunities from Manitoba’s producers and industry.

“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,” said Blaine Pedersen, Agriculture and Development minister. “We are committed to bringing the voices of farmers forward.”

The province is seeking public input in four areas: business risk management, market opportunities, innovation and technology, and resiliency.

Business risk management programs are important tools that help producers manage their risk. For the past two years, producer feedback has suggested that existing programming is not effective for some sectors, leading federal and provincial governments to explore changes.

Manitoba’s agriculture industry continues to be export-driven. The province wants to ensure that producers and processors have continued access to current and new market opportunities.

Innovation is becoming increasingly ingrained in the agriculture and agri-food sector. Technology has the capacity to prepare for and mitigate risk, address labour shortages, improve animal health and welfare, and build increased sustainability into the sector. Input from the public will help shape Manitoba’s capacity through the use of Ag Action Manitoba programs.

COVID-19 has impacted all Manitobans as well as food supply chains. Public input will help ensure the sector continues to be resilient in the face of future disruptions and crisis.

To take part in the online engagement, visit https://engagemb.ca/engaging-mb-ag-industry. The online public engagement will close Tuesday, Sept. 1.