I like to think that anything is possible if properly managed. Naysayers may disagree with this, but humans’ ability to fulfil a linear progression from point A to point B and achieve the impossible exists throughout human history. But what happens when you don’t know what point B is, or have the time, desire, or […] Read more
Stories by Katelyn Duncan PAg
Education for us all needs to be at the forefront of reconciliation
In the context of today’s public policy environment, education is at the forefront of most meaningful change. Education, in every sense of the word, is of particular importance as it pertains to reconciliation with Canada’s Indigenous peoples. With National Indigenous Peoples Day occurring earlier this week, it’s an important time for us to learn more […] Read more
Factors to ponder when determining employee compensation
A common theme among farmers is the collective industry-wide struggle to hire good employees. The struggle often focuses on the question of how much to pay them. Three considerations when negotiating employee wages are: quantity (market supply and demand) quality employee preferences In many ways, wage negotiations can be more art than science. To better […] Read more
‘Misinformation’ label often used to dismiss others’ opinions
The word “misinformation” is problematic for many reasons. Its irresponsible use can remove nuanced thinking from public and political discourse and divide people into groups. Misinformation is defined as false information that is spread regardless of whether there is intent to mislead. But “false” often relies on anecdotal evidence or opinion, not scientific rigour, and […] Read more
Emission reduction targets present opportunity for farmers
I find it helpful to approach discussions about climate change with two questions. First, do you believe climate change is an issue that warrants government intervention? Second, what policy tool, or tools, will efficiently achieve desired outcomes in the most cost-effective way? To spice things up, we can add a third question: What specific climate-change-related […] Read more
Grain marketing about planning for the worst and hoping for the best
Low yields and high prices are grain marketing themes these days. A few questions on farmers’ minds seem to be: Is it time to hold or sell? Which marketing advisers should I trust? What rotational considerations will I take into account for next year given the widespread drought? While a marketing plan can’t solve a […] Read more
Public trust about building relationships not changing minds
Building public trust in modern agriculture has long been identified as a priority by provincial and federal governments, industry associations, and producers. Substantial resources have been allocated toward efforts to improve the brand of Canadian agriculture, connect with consumers, secure market access and reduce regulatory pressure. Further investment was announced in May 2021; the federal […] Read more
Canada’s First Nations people were country’s first farmers
The first farmers of this land did not wear Carhartt’s. They didn’t drive pickup trucks or listen to Merle Haggard. The first farmers of this land were not of European descent. The first farmers were Indigenous people of what is now called the Canadian Prairies. Primarily mobile buffalo hunters, Indigenous people produced and sold food, […] Read more
Big solutions recommended for Canada’s food system
The Canadian Agri-food Policy Institute recently hosted the Big Solutions Forum, an event where private industry, producers, and government officials discuss Canada’s food system. A theme throughout the dialogue was that a systemic approach will be necessary to achieve any meaningful impact. This prompted me to try to further understand the purpose of a food […] Read more
Is agriculture on the cusp of a health and wellness revolution?
The pandemic has forced farmers to adapt to a new way of living, working, and playing. What once required a trip to the city to go to the gym or attend a group fitness class can now be conducted online. With increased emphasis on distancing and the topic of mental health on the verge of […] Read more
