SASKATCHEWAN CELEBRATES AGRICULTURE AND FOOD MONTH

Saskatchewan will celebrate the importance of its agriculture and food industry during the month of October.

"Agriculture and Food Month draws our attention to the impact the industry has on the lives of all people in the province," Deputy Premier and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Clay Serby said.

"Economic activity associated with Saskatchewan's agriculture and food sector includes more than the crop and livestock sectors. It also includes the development of medicines derived from plant and animal products, the manufacture of farm machinery, tourism activity on vacation farms, and agro-forestry."

"This annual celebration of agriculture and food gives us an opportunity to reflect on the diversity and scope of the agricultural industry," Serby said. "While wheat continues to be important to the province, food processing is now the province's largest manufacturing industry and 30 per cent of Canada's agricultural biotechnology companies are located in Saskatoon.

"All Saskatchewan residents recognize the past few months have been very difficult for Saskatchewan's producers. The public show of support for Saskatchewan's producers has been spectacular. The observation of Agriculture and Food Month will give us an opportunity to focus on the enduring strength of our producers and the fact that despite circumstances beyond their control, they have always continued to strive and to have hope for next year."

Agriculture and Food Month is held in October to coincide with Thanksgiving, the United Nations' World Food Day on October 16th and the Canadian Agriculture and Food Celebration.

Agriculture and Food Month in Saskatchewan also coincides with Saskatchewan Made Month, sponsored by the Saskatchewan Food Processors Association, and Agriculture in the Classroom's activities during Education Week, October 5th-11th.

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For More Information, Contact:

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