Released on October 1, 2013
Saskatchewan Celebrates Opportunities in the Agriculture Industry
Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart has proclaimed October as Agriculture Month in Saskatchewan. The month will focus on opportunities for youth in agriculture.
“Our province has been a leader in feeding the world and will continue to do so as the global demand for food increases,” Stewart said. “Naturally, there is a high demand for skilled individuals ready to take on this challenge. Whether your interests lie in business, research, farming or ranching, working in agriculture comes with the promise of a bright future and the opportunity to help feed the world.”
Agriculture is a major contributor to the Saskatchewan economy, employing more than 50,000 people and accounting for 7.5 per cent of the provincial GDP. Saskatchewan is also the top agriculture exporting province, with more than $11 billion in agriculture exports in 2012. This includes 53 per cent of the world’s lentils, 38 per cent of the world’s peas and 21 per cent of the world’s canola oil.
To showcase the diverse career options in agriculture, the ministry has created an opportunity catalogue to distribute to guidance counsellors and industry leaders. The catalogue features examples of careers in agriculture, highlighting the people behind the jobs and the unique paths they took to find their home in agriculture.
During the month of October, teachers, producers and industry are encouraged to get involved in spreading the news that a job in agriculture can lead to a challenging, rewarding career.
Stay connected with Agriculture Month by following the Ministry of Agriculture on Twitter @SKGovAG or by visiting the website at www.agriculture.gov.sk.ca.
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For more information, contact:
Angela Hall
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: angela.hall@gov.sk.ca
Cell: 306-527-0521