By Kaylyn Whibbs, Communications Consultant, Communications Branch, Regina
Public trust is a phrase you likely hear often when it comes to agriculture in Saskatchewan.
The ministry places a special emphasis on public trust and transparency to help strengthen the ties between consumers and our producers. While those ties are proving to be strong with over 80 per cent of the public having a positive perception of agriculture, we also know we can always improve.
We do our best to build public trust in our industry in various ways throughout the year, such as through extension services, supporting cutting edge research and sustainable agriculture programming.
Each year the ministry surveys Saskatchewan residents to gauge their perceptions of the industry. This year’s results show 61 per cent of Saskatchewanians know where to find credible information about agriculture and food. This means even in a province rooted in agriculture, 39 per cent of our population is still unsure about how to find answers to their agriculture and food related questions, which presents an opportunity for everyone in the industry.
According to the survey, 57 per cent of respondents believe the agriculture industry is open and transparent about their practices. In this modern age of information, people want to hear and understand more.
Overall, 83 per cent of respondents continue to have a positive perception of agriculture. One of the big influences we see right now on people’s perceptions of agriculture is food affordability. Food affordability is an important conversation to Saskatchewanians, but it extends beyond our provincial and even national borders.
People are recognizing innovation is key to keeping food affordable. Our survey shows 76 per cent of residents agree innovation in the industry promotes food affordability.
Innovation is a big part of our agriculture industry’s growth and success, and three quarters of respondents believe Saskatchewan farmers and ranchers are seeking to continually improve and move in the right direction. It is encouraging to see the recognition being given to producers for the sustainable decisions they are making on their farms.
When consolidated, this information tells us people want to hear more about food production. They care about food affordability and recognize the connection to innovation, and they want to hear more from a producer.
