As has been the case for more than a century, the success of Alberta’s overall economy continues to rely absolutely on the prosperity and well-being of the province’s agriculture community.
At the same time, farmers, ranchers and agri-business owners in this district and elsewhere in rural Alberta continue to depend on agricultural societies to promote and support their vital economic and social interests.
The Alberta government has announced plans to investigate the future of the province’s regional agriculture society system and its role in the community-at-large going forward.
Hopefully, everyone involved with the review will fully realize that the societies have strong support among rural ratepayers, elected officials, the business community and others.
RJ Sigurdson, minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, says the review will seek information and make recommendations to the government.
“Regional agricultural societies are a huge part of Alberta communities and a lot has changed since they were established more than a century ago” said Sigurdson.
“We know they do great work. Now we need to understand their challenges and opportunities to better position our agriculture sector and rural communities for success.
“Regional agricultural societies are made up of Albertans who genuinely love their communities. The societies play a huge role in their surrounding communities (and) develop educational programs, organize major community or special events and provide services based on community needs.”
As the review gets underway, Alberta will celebrate Agricultural Societies Day on Sept. 21, a fitting opportunity for everyone to recognize the vital work the organizations do in communities large and small throughout the year.
Alberta is sure to face many challenges in the days to come, including dealing with the ever-shifting oil and gas industry, massive and increasing costs of health care, huge ongoing pressures on the education system, and growing populations in many towns, cities, villages and counties.
As such, the province needs a strong and vibrant agricultural society system to help guide and lead rural communities in particular, forward in the months and years ahead.
Dan Singleton is an editor with the Albertan.
