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Agriculture Roundup for Friday October 21, 2022

Oct 21, 2022 | 10:03 AM

MELFORT, Sask. – Assiniboine Community College has named of one of its new buildings in honour of a generous benefactor.

The college has been fundraising for a new Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture. The Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment will focus on agriculture and environment programming to help address skills shortages.

Russ Edwards is providing $4 million dollars towards the school.

Edwards is the founder and owner of WGI Westman Group, whose business includes constructing culverts, steel roofing, and siding which has grown into one of Canada’s largest manufacturers of steel products.

Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment Dean Tim Hore said the donation is an incredible gift.

“It will have a long-lasting impact as our college continues to advance its vision for leadership in agricultural education,” Dore said.

This is the first time the college has named one of its academic schools after an individual.

Canadians are being urged to build a circular economy.

During Waste Reduction Week, consumers are asked to think about the amount and type of waste they produce and look for ways to recycle as many materials as possible.

On average, only half of the material in garbage bins belongs there. The rest can be diverted into other programs, such as recycling and composting.

Saskatchewan Environment Minister Dana Skoropad said the province offers many recycling options.

“We have made great progress on reducing our waste as a province, and when waste is managed responsibly, it helps maintain the health and safety of our province,” Skoropad said.

There are several ways producers can recycle agricultural materials including grain bags and bale twine and through Cleanfarms and the Saskatchewan Association for Resource Recovery Corporation used oil and antifreeze recycling program.

Saskatchewan Waste Reduction Council Executive Director Joanne Fedyk said urban and rural residents can do their part.

“We encourage everyone to use this week to focus on reducing waste, and to consider new ways to consume less in our homes, our workplaces, and our communities. There are many resources, including our Waste Reduction Hub, to gather ideas from,” Fedyk said.

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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