Released on November 4, 2010
At the 22nd annual Yorkton Harvest Showdown, Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud announced a $20,000 development grant for the proposed Western Canadian Crop Technology Interpretive Centre in Yorkton. The provincial funding will go toward a development plan, which will help the project steering committee to secure the necessary funding for the construction of the Interpretive Centre.
"Agriculture is an important part of our history, culture and economy in Saskatchewan and promoting the industry is a priority for our government," Bjornerud said. "We are pleased to provide this funding to advance this project and showcase our industry."
The proposed centre will feature displays showcasing soils, crops, crop management and technologies, agribusiness and agritourism.
"The proposed Western Canadian Crop Technology Interpretive Centre will be a great addition to Saskatchewan's tourism landscape," Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport Minister Bill Hutchinson said. "This is an opportunity to diversify from the traditional tourism offering and promote Saskatchewan as an agritourism destination."
The Ministries of Agriculture and Tourism, Parks, Culture and Sport are supporting this initiative with two separate development grants of $10,000 each for a total of $20,000.
"This centre will play an important role in telling the story of agriculture in Saskatchewan and the Yorkton area," Yorkton MLA Greg Ottenbreit said. "I am pleased our government is partnering with the City of Yorkton, local businesses, and other organizations on this important initiative."
"We are very excited to have the province support our vision and the agriculture and tourism industries in Yorkton," Tourism Yorkton Executive Director Randy Goulden said. "These funds will kick start the development of the project as we work towards construction of this great facility."
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For more information, contact:
Patrick Boyle
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: Patrick.Boyle@gov.sk.ca