PROVINCE FUNDS RURAL HEALTH EXTENSION PROGRAM

The Government of Saskatchewan will provide $90,000 in support of the Rural Health Extension Program, operated by the Institute of Agricultural, Rural and Environmental Health (IAREH).

"This program makes an important contribution to the health and safety of Saskatchewan's agricultural producers, their families, and those employed by them," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "With our support, we are aiming for the sustainable reduction in agricultural producers' deaths and injuries."

The Rural Health Extension Program directly addresses a broad range of agricultural health and safety issues, including farm accident reduction, prolonged exposure to pesticides and airborne contaminants, and rural water quality. Funding supports extension activities in farm equipment safety, farm injury surveillance, respiratory health, hearing conservation, skin cancer, and economic impact of farm injuries.

"The Rural Health Extension Program represents a co-operative effort involving Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food, the participation of 155 rural municipalities encompassing more than 26,000 farm families in Saskatchewan, and the Institute of Agricultural, Rural and Environmental Health," IAREH Director Dr. James Dosman said. "By each of us bringing our resources to the table, we are able to mount an important and credible program in support of agricultural production in Saskatchewan."

The Institute, through its Agricultural Health and Safety Network, carries out a range of educational activities, including a Farm Safety Audit, Slide Talk Presentations (West Nile), as well as health and safety training for nurses.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031