Agriculture is the major industry in the Moose Jaw area. The colour of the crops signals the waning days of summer as harvest has started in some areas of the province. I am always amazed at how quickly our fields turn from yellow blossoms and deep green to gold; ready to harvest in such a short period of time.
Agriculture and the potash industry are the main economic drivers in the Moose Jaw region. Wheat was the main crop grown for decades, however that has given way to a much greater diversity of crops. It is incredible to understand that Saskatchewan is the world's leading exporter of dry peas, lentils, durum, mustard seed, canola, canary seed and oats. Livestock production is also a major industry for our area with Moose Jaw being the largest livestock distribution centre in Saskatchewan.
Our government has seen how appropriate investment can enhance the efforts of our hard-working agricultural producers. The Agriculture portion of the 2020-21 budget is $363.9 million. The budget includes funding for research to keep the industry growing and competitive. It also includes funding for business risk management programs, such as Crop Insurance, with significant investment in the Livestock Price Insurance Program.
Seeing the combines operating in the fields brings memories of harvest time when I was growing up on a farm. The crops are bigger and more diversified. The equipment is much bigger, with a lot more technology. Harvesting was always the most exciting, yet most stressful time of the year on the farm.
There are few industries as financially risky as the agricultural industry. That was evident last year when many crops could not be harvested in the fall because of the wet weather. In the past, many of our farming and ranching families suffered through this stress in silence, to the detriment of their health and their families. I strongly encourage individuals to access the supports available to help manage the stress of running a farming operation today.
The Farm Stress Line has been around for a number of years. Calls to the Farm Stress Line are answered by Mobile Crisis Services, a non-profit, community-based agency, and are completely confidential. Farm Stress Line calls doubled in 2018-2019 compared to the previous year. While this is concerning, it is also a signal that individuals are recognizing how important it is to look after one’s mental health.
Another tool is being developed for farmers to track their mental health and link them with supports. Innovation Saskatchewan and the Ministry of Agriculture have partnered with Bridges Health to develop an app called Avail. Avail will analyze wellness data supplied by the user and offer supports including articles, videos, online tips or more immediate help from a personal support network.
Our agricultural producers deserve a tremendous amount of appreciation for the work they do in feeding our world and our province while supporting our local community. When we see equipment in the fields in the next few weeks, or if we need to slow down for farm machinery on the road, let’s be grateful for our farmers and say a prayer for their health and safety. To all involved in our agriculture industry, I wish you a safe and successful harvest.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the position of this publication.
