By Alice McFarlane

Wheat Growers launch young farmer mentorship program

Aug 15, 2023 | 5:11 PM

A farm group wants to support the younger generation of farmers and encourage them to take an active role in the development of agriculture policy.

The Wheat Growers Association (WG) launched the mentorship program with a focus on getting young farmers to get informed and involved in agriculture policy. WG is a voluntary farmer-run organization dedicated to developing public policy solutions that strengthen the profitability and sustainability of farming, and the entire agricultural industry.

WG Saskatchewan Director and board treasurer Kaitly Kitzan said there is a lot to learn with regard to transportation, trade, and the environment.

“This is a great opportunity for young farmers to learn the effects different policies have on their farm.”

Kitzan said she has learned a lot since joining the board. She was finishing her university degree when a past director, Cherilyn Jolly-Nagel, reached out and asked her to join.

International Spotlight

P.A.'s Howe one of 4 Sask. born players named to Canada's World Junior roster

11h ago

National

Ottawa to remove 30% investment cap for Canadian pension funds

15h ago

Budget woes

Golf and curling centre faces grim season without financial boost

18h ago

“I knew nothing about agricultural policy and why it was important to the agriculture community and especially my farm. So, I hesitantly said, yes. Over the last few years, I’ve learned so much and really expanded my network,” she said. “I got some great experiences lobbying government at a provincial and federal level. This was my way to ensure other young farmers get involved in agricultural policy.”

WG will support two young farmers from the Western Canada region which includes the Peace River District of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. To apply, you have to be a grain farmer within Western Canada and under the age of 35.

Kitzan said applications will be accepted until Nov. 1. The successful candidates will be announced on Nov. 15.

“We look forward to hearing from many candidates across Western Canada,” Kitzan said.

The program is being supported by Canadian Pacific Kansas City Rail (CPKC).

More information is available here.

–

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @farmnewsNOW