By David Opinko

Lethbridge County reports highest levels of agricultural activities in Alberta

Oct 23, 2020 | 2:59 PM

LETHBRIDGE COUNTY, AB – It is no secret that Southern Alberta’s agriculture sector is an economic powerhouse, but it turns out that it is the most powerful in the entire province.

A new report from Serecon conducted for Lethbridge County shows that gross farm receipts in the county totalled $2.2-billion, the only municipality in Alberta to reach that amount.

Livestock represents approximately 80 per cent of this amount while crops make up the remaining 20 per cent. Livestock operations in the region contribute over $500-million to GDP.

The next-highest municipality’s receipts were just under $1-billion.

“Our strength as a region lies in agriculture and our producers who make such significant economic contributions, not only locally but on a provincial and national scale,” says Reeve Lorne Hickey. “Although the future for many municipalities remains uncertain due to the global pandemic, we are optimistic that we will weather the storm by supporting our ag industry that continues to provide the world with high-quality food products.”

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Between 2011 and 2016, Lethbridge County’s farm cash receipts increased by 90 per cent.

During that time, the market value of livestock and poultry doubled to over $1-billion, the highest valuation in the province.

“The Serecon report underscores the ongoing strength, stability and importance of our established livestock industry as well as traditional crops such as wheat, barley and canola,” says Economic Development Officer, Martin Ebel. “However, it also highlights the exciting development of non-traditional, high-value crops in the county, in addition to the very strong investment in value-added agri-food production. It is really a nice balance, with realistic opportunities for continued sustainable growth in the future.”

Among crops, wheat contributes the most to GDP, followed by barley and canola.

LNN has reached out to Lethbridge County and Serecon for more details.