This month marks Canada's 11th annual Agriculture Literacy Month. Students from all over the country are learning more about agriculture and food production, and the passion that farmers have for producing high-quality food.
Industry volunteers deliver engaging presentations to students across the province to help students learn about where their food comes from. Children are given the opportunity to meet producers and volunteers of Canadian agriculture through innovative in-person presentations and even a cross country virtual farm tour. Students will get to hear plenty of personal experiences from farmers passionate about promoting the industry.
Ag in the Classroom Canada's inaugural Great Canadian Farm Tour will feature 11 virtual farm tours, including two in Saskatchewan, a beef and dairy operation.
Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan Executive Director Sara Shymk says that during this month, kids have the chance to ask all their questions to the people who know food and agriculture best, the farmers in the province.
When asked about Agriculture Literacy Month, Shymk said they "were able to capitalize on opportunities that can bring unique and innovative learning experiences to students all across the province. This really helps them connect to agriculture and care about the food they are eating and the farmers who are growing it".
Thanks to the dedication of the teachers and ag industry volunteers, the program runs smoothly. "For farmers around the province, we would love to have more farmers volunteer with us particularly for the Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month," she added.
In the event that members of the industry would like to contribute to Agriculture In The Classroom Saskatchewan without the element of public presentation, donations are also encouraged. Those interested in learning more about agriculture in Saskatchewan should also visit exploresaskag.ca, a website that people of all ages can use to discover all things agriculture in the province.
"Educating youth about agriculture is an important part of strengthening the industry through understanding and connection," Agriculture Minister David Marit said. "Presentations and sharing personal experiences help children understand the work that goes into producing the food we eat and creates an appreciation for the dedicated people that are part of the robust supply chain."
Over the last 10 years, Canadian Agriculture Literacy Month has reached over 42,000 students in over 1,500 schools in Saskatchewan delivered by over 2,000 volunteers.
