An online survey has been launched by Alberta Agriculture for use in developing provincial and national farm programs.
Agriculture Minister Oneil Carlier announced the survey March 30 in preparation for talks with the federal government on the next agriculture policy framework.
The current agreement, Growing Forward 2, expires March 31, 2018, and ministers will be meeting to discuss the next version this summer.
The Alberta provincial budget, released March 16, indicated that $122 million had been allocated for agriculture income support programs.
“It’s important that we hear from producers and other stakeholders so that we can craft an agreement that supports sustainable growth and makes life better for Alberta producers and their communities,” Carlier said in a news release.
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The survey asks respondents about their views on markets and trade, research and innovation, risk management, environmental sustainability, value-added agriculture and public trust.
Several statements on each of those topics are presented with respondents asked to rate them in terms of priority.
The news release said “agriculture sector representatives” will be able to provide their input at four consultation meetings to be held in coming weeks.
The survey is available online until May 8 at www.alberta.ca/agricultural-policy-framework-engagement.aspx.
barb.glen@producer.com
