Released on October 1, 2008
Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud has proclaimed October as Agriculture Month in Saskatchewan.
"I encourage all Saskatchewan residents to recognize the role of agriculture in Saskatchewan," Bjornerud said. "With nearly half of Canada's farmland, and a large rural population, agriculture continues to be the backbone of our province and a vital part of our growing economy."
One of every four jobs in the province is generated directly or indirectly by Saskatchewan's agriculture industry. These jobs are in a multitude of areas including primary production, sales, manufacturing, business, processing, teaching, research and transportation among others.
"The contributions of agriculture in Saskatchewan are the direct result of the hard work of Saskatchewan producers," Bjornerud said. "This proclamation recognizes their dedication and the important role they continue to play in the province."
Saskatchewan producers generate more than $6 billion in primary production annually. In addition, Saskatchewan's value-added processing industry is worth an estimated $2.5 billion a year.
The agriculture industry represents almost one-third of Saskatchewan's exports.
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For more information, contact:
Jenna Webb
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: jenna.webb@agriculture.gov.sk.ca