NEW FUNDING FOR FARM EDUCATION AND SAFETY

Today, Crown Investments Corporation Minister Tim McMillan, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Bob Bjornerud announced $105,000 in new funding for the Saskatchewan Association of Agricultural Societies and Exhibitions (SAASE) to administer agriculture safety and education programs.

"Keeping farm and ranch families safe is a major priority for our government and awareness plays a large role," McMillan said. "I'm pleased to partner with SAASE on these innovative programs to educate our youth about agriculture and the importance of farm safety."

The Ministry of Agriculture is committing $30,000 in annual funding over the next three years for Farm Safety Day Camps. These Camps promote safety on the farm through interactive demonstrations and displays. Students also receive training on how to respond to injuries while on the farm. The camps are held across the province and are aimed at kids aged six to 15.

The Ministry of Agriculture is also providing $15,000 to SAASE's Ag on the MOOve agriculture awareness project. This funding will be used to purchase a trailer and develop interactive educational displays. The trailer will be used to transport the displays throughout the province for youth attending trade shows, agriculture events, fairs and exhibitions.

"SAASE and the 62 member Agricultural Societies would like to thank the Ministry of Agriculture for supporting this important initiative," SAASE Executive Director Glen Duck said. "Saskatchewan's Agricultural Societies have always played a major role in rural Saskatchewan, and the hosting of the Farm Safety Day Camps and the Ag on the MOOve project will enhance that role."

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For more information, contact:

Patrick Boyle
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 787-2359
Email: Patrick.Boyle@gov.sk.ca