$78.5 MILLION ANNOUNCED FOR SASKATCHEWAN PRODUCERS UNDER THE APF

Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Andy Mitchell and Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman today announced a federal contribution of $78.5 million for a package of programs and services under the Agricultural Policy Framework (APF).

The package consists of $38.5 million over five years for Renewal Chapter programming, and $40 million for Environment Chapter programming over the term of the agreement.

"By working together, governments are able to provide for diversification and new business ventures," Mitchell said. "Through this agreement, we will help to make Canada a world leader in environmentally sound agricultural production."

"These programs will assist Saskatchewan producers in making the informed decisions necessary in today's complex and challenging business world," Wartman said. "And they will make these decisions using environmentally sound methods to produce world-class commodities."

Renewal Chapter programming includes the Canadian Farm Business Advisory Services, Specialized Business Planning Services, and Planning and Assessment for Value-Added Enterprises.

Renewal programs are designed to help producers set goals for their farm business and develop the business plans they need to increase profitability. Provincial renewal specialists will help producers to access the programs.

Environment Chapter programming is designed to enhance environmental stewardship in Saskatchewan's agriculture industry.

Under the Environmental Farm Plan program, for example, farmers will assess their operation's environmental performance and create action plans for improvement. Cost-shared incentives will be available to encourage the adoption of beneficial management practices. Participation is voluntary and confidential.

A Saskatchewan Agri-Environmental Advisory Council will provide producer input and direction for environmental programming. It will work directly with federal and provincial agriculture department officials. Program details for the Environment Chapter of the APF will be announced in the months ahead.

Producers may obtain more details about Renewal and Environment Chapter programming under the APF by calling Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at 1-866-452-5558 or by visiting the APF Web site at: www.agr.gc.ca/puttingcanadafirst.

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For More Information, Contact:

Media Relations Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Ottawa Phone: (613) 759-7972

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