REGINA — A variety of agricultural stakeholders have formed a new provincial drainage research and extension network.
The Saskatchewan Farm Stewardship Association, which promotes drainage, announced the network Sept. 10, describing it as a private sector leadership initiative and a collaboration of industry leaders and strategic advisers.
The Saskatchewan Drainage Extension Network will be known as SK DEN and includes members from the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, Crop Intelligence, Croptimistic Technology, Hebert Grain Ventures, Precision Drainage Solutions, the Saskatchewan Conservation and Development Association, Stone Farms and the University of Saskatchewan, along with SaskFSA.
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It lists the provincial ministry of agriculture, the Water Security Agency and Land Improvement Contractors of Ontario as strategic advisers.
SaskFSA president Myles Thorpe said sustainable crop production and soil health depend on proper drainage. SK DEN is to share and build knowledge of innovative and responsible water management practices, according to the press release.
“It is known that responsible drainage of excess temporary and seasonal water within the ag zone will improve field efficiency, yield and economics,” the announcement said. “Drainage management will also improve agronomics and environmental stewardship.”
The network objectives include: expanding partnerships and collaboration among those interested in research, technology and water management best management practices; identifying and supporting research projects that focus on improving innovation, soil health, field-scale science and field efficiency; developing an agriculture water information hub and extension program; and identifying opportunities to make agriculture water management practices and policy more relatable to agriculture producers, the next generation of landowners and the general public.
WSA president Shawn Jaques said the network will be an important resource to help identify solutions, share information and strengthen operations.
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