SEMINAR ON RECIPE FOR RURAL SUCCESS

The Mid Sask Regional Economic Development Authority/Community Futures Development Corporation (REDA/CFDC) will explore the recipe for rural success at a seminar by Dr. Mark Partridge November 21st in Outlook.

Partridge, who currently holds the chair in the New Rural Economy at the University of Saskatchewan, is an economist who specializes in regional economic growth. His research work examines the linkages between technological change and economic growth in Western Canada, and looks at the future prospects of rural life on the Prairies.

"Dr. Partridge's seminar really gets at the core of what makes rural communities tick and addresses what needs to happen so these communities can prosper," Deputy Premier and Rural Development Minister Clay Serby said. "Understanding the choices people make when selecting where to live enables communities to promote their strengths."

Partridge plans to use Geographical Information System (GIS) technology to create maps of rural economic activity. The maps will track information on population, income levels, business activity, governance, taxes, educational background, transportation, health care services and other variables. Analyzing the data may reveal underlying patterns of successful rural communities.

Partridge believes farming will continue to be important to the rural economy. However, information and knowledge-intensive technologies, as well as quality-of-life issues, will play growing roles in successful rural economies.

The seminar is part of a regional initiative of the Mid Sask REDA/CFDC called Water Wolf Economic Developments Inc. The project addresses barriers to non-agricultural development in the region.

"We're excited about Dr. Partridge's vision and his insightful assessment of the interaction between rural and urban areas," Water Wolf Economic Developments Inc. Manager Russ McPherson said. "He will impart to us the realities and opportunities for rural communities in new economies."

Partridge will speak at 1:00 p.m. at the Outlook Heritage Centre.

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For More Information, Contact:

Donna Rehirchuk Rural Development Regina Phone: (306) 787-2359