Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn was joined by agricultural leaders to announce the province’s participation in the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program, a new tool to help producers better manage risk and withstand market volatility. From left to right: Doug Chorney, president of Keystone Agricultural Producers; Heinz Reimer, president of Manitoba Beef Producers and Jonathan Bouw, co-owner of Edie Creek Angus Farms, the site of the Feb. 13 announcement

February 13, 2014

MANITOBA PRODUCERS TO BENEFIT FROM NEW LIVESTOCK PRICE INSURANCE PROGRAM

Manitoba’s livestock producers will have a new tool to manage risk and withstand market volatility.  Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today that the province will participate in the Western Livestock Price Insurance Program (WLPIP).
“With this new program, Manitoba’s beef and pork producers can insure their herds against unexpected price drops,” said Minister Ritz.  “Our government will continue to work closely with the provinces and industry to make sure producers have access to the bankable and predictable tools they need to grow their operations and our overall economy.”
Details of the new pilot program are being finalized and will be available for cattle and hog producers beginning this spring.  It is a voluntary and user-friendly program which will help producers manage risks related to market volatility and unexpected price declines.
“This insurance program is new territory for the Manitoba livestock sector and something producers have been asking the province to pursue,” said Minister Kostyshyn.  “We are pleased to partner with the other western provinces and the federal government to make it a reality.  Through WLPIP, producers will now have a new way to manage price risk.”
The WLPIP will operate as a four-year pilot project that includes an evaluation to assess its effectiveness as a risk management tool for livestock producers.  The program is intended to be actuarially sound, with premiums fully funded by producers.
"Price insurance has been a long standing request from beef producers and this new risk management tool will help the industry develop the confidence we need to re-build Manitoba’s beef herd,” said Heinz Reimer, president of Manitoba Beef Producers.  “Beef producers require strong, bankable risk mitigation tools.  The combination of this price insurance and the revisions to forage insurance announced this past fall will give beef producers a strong and bankable risk management package, which could fundamentally change beef production in this province.”

Alberta’s Agriculture Financial Services Corporation is providing program administration across Western Canada, with the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation acting as the insurer for Manitoba producers who participate in the program.

The federal and provincial governments will cover the administration and delivery costs through Growing Forward 2’s AgriRisk Initiatives – Administrative Capacity Building. The federal government will also provide deficit financing for the pilot.

More detailed information about the WLPIP will be available in March and shared with producers online at www.wlpip.ca or at 1-877-899-2372 (toll-free).  Information will also be available at the Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation.

Other GF2 Investments

In Manitoba, the federal and provincial governments are investing $176 million under Growing Forward 2, a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial policy framework to advance the agriculture industry, helping producers and processors become more innovative and competitive in world markets.

- 30 -

June 10, 2013

MANITOBA STANDS WITH PRODUCERS IN SUPPORTING LATEST FEDERAL ACTION ON COOL: KOSTYSHYN

– – –
Tariffs Proposed as Response to U.S. Unwillingness to Change Country of Origin Labelling

The province supports the Government of Canada in identifying a list of potential products for possible retaliatory tariffs in response to the United States’ continued unwillingness to comply with its obligations under the World Trade Organization (WTO) for country of origin labelling (COOL), Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn said today.
“By not making changes to COOL, the United States is continuing to negatively affect our farmers through unfair trade practices and, in turn, hurting our agriculture industry,” said Kostyshyn.  “Unfortunately, the federal government has been left with no choice but to propose these retaliatory tariffs and, as a province, we stand behind this action and behind our farmers.”
On Friday, the federal government released a list of potential U.S. agricultural products to which Canada could apply retaliatory tariffs.  This list was created with input from Canadian industry and includes products such as U.S. cattle, pigs, beef, pork, some fruits and vegetables, chocolate and other products.  The list of products for proposed retaliation will be published in the Canada Gazette and would need to be approved by the World Trade Organization.
The WTO ruled last June that COOL discriminates against exports of Canadian livestock.  The United States had until May 23, 2013, to implement regulatory or legislative changes to COOL.  The United States Department of Agriculture did not make the needed changes to bring COOL into compliance with its WTO obligations.  In Manitoba’s view, these changes will worsen the barriers facing Canadian livestock since COOL regulations were first implemented in 2008, Kostyshyn said.
In 2012, slaughter hog exports were down 77 per cent as compared to 2007, pre-COOL numbers.  Isowean/feeder pig exports were 28 per cent lower and slaughter cattle exports also saw 74 per cent decline over the same period.
Kostyshyn is currently attending the 2013 Legislative Agriculture Chairs Summit in Vancouver and has raised his concerns with COOL.  He also raised these same concerns in March of this year during a trade mission to Minnesota at meetings with U.S. legislators, agricultural officials and industry representatives. 
Kostyshyn said he recognizes the work of federal Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Gerry Ritz and federal International Trade and the Asia-Pacific Gateway Minister Ed Fast for their continued efforts to bring fairness for Canadian producers which includes today’s proposed tariffs.  The province also continues to work with the federal government and Manitoba’s agriculture industry to address this significant trade barrier for Canadian producers, Kostyshyn said.

- 30 -

Manitoba

January 15, 2013

TRI-PARTNER AGREEMENT SIGNED TO ENHANCE SOIL NUTRIENT MANAGEMENT

IN MANITOBA

Brandon AG Days Exhibition (January 15, 2013) - The Province of Manitoba, the Canadian Fertilizer Institute (CFI) and Keystone Agriculture Producers (KAP) have signed a 4R Nutrient Stewardship memorandum of understanding (MOU) that formalizes a joint commitment to support agriculture production and environmental protection through improved fertilizer use.

“Agriculture is a major contributor to Manitoba’s economy,” said Ron Kostyshyn, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives. “This MOU further strengthens a partnership that supports the responsible approach taken by producers to enrich the soil with appropriate nutrients that balance improvements to crop production with measures that also protect the environment.”

Kostyshyn noted the Right Source @ Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place® approach to nutrient management (commonly referred to as 4R Nutrient Stewardship), established by the Canadian Fertilizer Institute, provides the framework to meet the common goal of sustainability.

“CFI will be working with farmers and other partners to set targets for bringing thousands of acres of Canada’s farmland under 4R Nutrient Stewardship,” explained Lindsay Kaspick, of Koch Fertilizer Canada ULC and CFI board member. “There are many advantages for farmers to adopt the 4Rs into their cropping systems, including fertilizer efficiency – which minimizes nutrient loss and leakage into the air and water, and maximizes farmer returns.”

Through this agreement several new initiatives will be launched on Manitoba’s landscape, funded by the CFI, over the next three years. These include information development and distribution, the development of training materials and programs, field extension events, field trials, and projects that will refine nutrient uptake and removal values for Western Canadian crops.

“Farmers respect and protect the land and water resources that are integral to their livelihoods – for the benefit of all Manitobans,” said Doug Chorney of Keystone Agricultural Producers. “Now with more information and new research, we can fine tune our nutrient use to make even more of a difference.”

“I want Manitoba to be one of the most sustainable places in the world for agriculture production,” said Gord Mackintosh, Minister of Conservation and Water Stewardship. “We are taking every opportunity to protect our soil, water and air for today and for future generations.”

The government of Manitoba, Keystone Agricultural Producers, and CFI will also work in partnership with conservation groups to support the adoption of sustainable 4R Nutrient Stewardship Systems, and Lake Friendly’s Colleen Sklar is looking forward to the opportunities that will unfold from this partnership.

“As an organization dedicated to protecting our waterways, we’re encouraged to see these partners working together to officially recognize the 4R framework which will minimize the risk of nutrient losses to surface water and groundwater in Manitoba,”Sklar said.

Manitoba is the first prairie province to complete an arrangement with CFI on nutrient management and adoption/impact measurement. 4R Nutrient Stewardship was established in cooperation with government, researchers, farmers and the public and ensures nutrients are used in a way that protects the environment while enabling producers to achieve economic success.

- 30 -

The Province of Manitoba is distributing this release on behalf of the Canadian Fertilizer Institute, the Keystone Agricultural Producers and the government of Manitoba.

September 17, 2012

MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING TO STRENGTHEN ECONOMIC AND AGRICULTURAL TIES WITH ANHUI, CHINA: PREMIER

SHANGHAI—Premier Greg Selinger today signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Manitoba and Anhui Province in China to expand economic opportunities, trade and investment over the next five years, with particular focus on agriculture and bio-products.
“China is one of Manitoba’s most important trade partners and our past relationship with Anhui Province has become increasingly valuable for our producers and processors,” Selinger said.  “Our exports to China and Hong Kong in 2011 were $1.13 billion and almost one-third of that was agricultural products.”
The MOU, also signed by Anhui Gov. Li Bin, identifies a number of development priorities that will strengthen ties between the two provinces.  It is hoped that these will advance opportunities for developing and testing advanced technology in food and bio-products processing, broader trade in agricultural products, sharing knowledge and scientific research and improving access to Chinese markets, the premier said.
“Our agreement reinforces our intentions to focus on these priority areas and to encourage regular business-to-business contacts that promote trade and investment,” Selinger said.  “China’s direct investment in Canada has grown to $14 billion in 2010 from $6 billion in 2008 and we hope to keep encouraging that investment trend, especially in Manitoba.”
Manitoba and Anhui have had a cultural, business and trade relationship since 2000 when a trade mission from Anhui came to Manitoba.  The two provinces signed an MOU in 2001 and renewed it in 2005.  Signing today’s agreement will build on shared friendship and economic interests, Selinger said.
Manitoba’s overall exports to China include grains, animal feed, meat, machinery and freshwater fish.  Future opportunities with other parts of China may include potato processing, soybean and canola crushing and processing natural fibres like flax and hemp.

- 30 -

Upcoming - 16th September - Farm Day

Mark your calendar now

Sunday, September 16, 2012 is Manitoba's third annual Open Farm Day. This year, more than 50 host families are waiting to welcome you, your family and friends to visit their farm.
Pack up the family vehicle and head out to a local farm for a day of fun and adventure. You can add to the fun by rounding up friends or a community group or by making it a neighborhood outing.

Plan your route

You can visit as many farms as you like. First, decide what kind of farm (or farms) you want to learn more about. Then, use this handy farm guide map to plan your route. Or, you can use Google Map to find participating farms.
Most farm tour visits take about an hour. Admission to all the farms is free, however some farms may charge a fee for additional activities or on-farm products (ex: find your way through a corn maze., pick pumpkins or buy home-made preserves).
You can plan to make a whole day of visiting, or consider staying overnight at a local bed and breakfast and add in some local tourist sites as well. Most farm tour visits take about one hour per farm.
For full day pre-planned routes click here. Timelines provided are approximations including time of travel. Use the farm guide map and Google Map to locate farms for your itinerary.

Take a sneak peak

To get in the mind-set for your farming adventure, watch these videos from some of the host farms on the Open Farm Day roster.

Remember to stay safe Wear Proper shoes, not sandals Leave your pets at home Follow directions given by your farm hosts Keep a close watch on your children. Do not let them wander off on their own Do not touch any animals without first asking your hosts Do not climb or play on farm machinery or building without permission Use hand sanitizer when you leave each farm

Get Permission before you Burn

July 31, 2012

PROVINCE REMINDS PRODUCERS THAT AUTHORIZATION IS REQUIRED TO BURN CROP RESIDUE

Weather conditions through this spring and early summer have resulted in many crops maturing quickly and allowing for early harvest.
Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) encourages producers to consider alternative uses for crop residue.  Through the Growing Forward program, incentives have been established to encourage farmers to move away from the practice of stubble burning.
Many producers use alternative methods of dealing with crop residue such as chopping and spreading the straw or listing straw they have for sale on the Manitoba Hay Listing Service.  More information on these and other alternative methods of dealing with crop residue is available at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/soilwater/soil/fbd09s07.html.
Producers who choose to burn crop residue are reminded that authorization is required to burn crop residue between Aug. 1 and Nov. 15.  Authorizations are issued daily by 11 a.m. based on weather, moisture and favourable smoke dispersion conditions.  Night burning is banned year-round.
Burning permits may be required for non-authorized rural municipalities.  Permit application forms and information are available by calling the toll-free information line at 1-800-265-1233.  Service is available in French and English.  Information is also available from MAFRI GO offices and on the Internet at under Manitoba Crop Residue Burning Program at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/soilwater/soil/fbd09s00.html.
Manitoba’s controlled burning program is part of the Burning of Crop Residue and Non-crop Herbage Regulation.  The program was introduced to protect public health and safety while allowing farmers to deal with difficult straw management problems.
Producers are encouraged to contact their local agricultural office for information and advice on crop residue burning.
Stubble burning regulations are enforced by environment officers and the RCMP.  Failure to follow the regulations could result in fines of up to $50,000.

- 30 -

July 6, 2012

CANINE DISTEMPER OUTBREAK SUSPECTED IN WINNIPEG-AREA RACCOONS

Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives’ Office of the Chief Veterinarian of are advising pet owners there have been a number of reports of raccoons displaying symptoms of canine distemper in Winnipeg and Headingley in the past month.
Canine distemper can easily spread from raccoons to dogs.  Dogs that have been infected with distemper tend to suffer a progressive deterioration of mental abilities and motor skills.
Dog owners, especially those living in the affected area, are advised to ensure their dogs have been vaccinated against distemper and to prevent contact between dogs and wildlife.  Dog owners who are unsure if their pets are adequately vaccinated should contact their local veterinarian.  Routine vaccinations of dogs are highly effective in preventing disease.
Reports have come from areas with typically high raccoon populations including near the Red and Assiniboine rivers as well as the Corydon area of Winnipeg.
Infected raccoons were acting very disoriented or lethargic, with crusted eyes, excess mucus coming from the nasal area, and shallow or laboured breathing.  Residents who see a raccoon in such a condition are asked to keep people and pets well away from it and report it to Manitoba Conservation and Water Stewardship at 204‑945-5221.
Humans are not at risk from this disease.  However, people can reduce the number of raccoons near their homes by securing garbage and removing other attractants (including bird feeders and outside pet food bowls).
More information on raccoons and preventing raccoon problems is available at: www.gov.mb.ca/conservation/wildlife/problem_wildlife/raccoon.html.

- 30 -

Upcoming-Event - Capturing opportunities April 24-25, 2012

February 14, 2012

CAPTURING OPPORTUNITIES 2012 PRESENTS 'THE LOCAL LIVING ECONOMY'

– – –
Forum Provides a Prime Opportunity to See, Listen and Learn for Individual, Community Business Growth: Kostyshyn

Manitoba’s new Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Ron Kostyshyn is encouraging potential, new and experienced entrepreneurs, business owners, community leaders, youth and local organizations to attend this year’s Capturing Opportunities conference scheduled for April 24 and 25 at the Keystone Centre in Brandon.
“This year’s theme, the Local Living Economy, provides a lens through which we can view new opportunities for rural Manitoba,” said Kostyshyn.  “We’re excited to encourage the sharing of ideas between budding entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders, and to provide an opportunity for rural Manitobans to network throughout the two-day event.”
Capturing Opportunities 2012 will feature information sessions and keynote speakers addressing new opportunities in grain marketing, food and the bioeconomy, growing from within and unique
co-operative business models with particular examples related to the local economy.
A variety of awards will celebrate the accomplishments of youth, entrepreneurs and communities, inspire all participants to learn from each other, and challenge new business strengths, the minister said.  Keynote speakers and session leaders will provide listen and learn opportunities for business growth and development.
The minister noted the Great Manitoba Food Fight will again be a featured event in a battle of unique recipes and fabulous food with a distinctly Manitoba flair.  This competition partners contestants with first- and second-year culinary students from the Assiniboine Community College’s Manitoba Institute of Culinary Arts.  Each team prepares a savoury sample for a panel of judges and pitches their product ideas.  First-, second- and third-place finalists receive product development awards valued at $15,000, $10,000 and $5,000.
The Entrepreneur Boot Camp is an opportunity for new and experienced entrepreneurs to improve their marketing skills by learning how to perfect their business proposals and presenting them to a panel of expert judges, said Kostyshyn.  The top three presenters are awarded prize packages valued up to $2,000 in cash and business services.

Outstanding Manitobans, communities and organizations will be officially recognized through the Capturing Opportunities Awards, presented in five categories:

• outstanding community leadership;
• rural youth achievement;
• economic development innovation (community);
• economic development innovation (corporate); and
• entrepreneurial innovation. 

Awards will be presented at the Celebration Banquet.
“Our province has an impressive track record for creating new products and promoting innovative thinking for business and community development,” said Kostyshyn.  “Encouraging creative thinking by individuals of all ages develops an environment where businesses can thrive and grow.  The annual Capturing Opportunities event is excellent fuel for our province’s economic engine.”
Watch www.capturingopportunities.ca/ for program information.

- 30 -

Alternative Energy Initiative gets government Support

January 17, 2012

PROVINCE LAUNCHES NEW BIOMASS ENERGY SUPPORT PROGRAM

– – –
Grants Provide Financial Incentive to Use, Produce Biomass Energy Products Benefiting Agricultural Producers, Environment: Kostyshyn

BRANDON—A new Manitoba Biomass Energy Support Program (MBESP) will provide up to $400,000 in grants to encourage coal users to switch to biomass energy products and support the expansion and growth of the biomass energy production industry, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives (MAFRI) Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced here today at the opening of Ag Days 2012.
“Biomass is a made-in-Manitoba fuel that can be produced from agricultural residues like straw, oat hulls and flax shives,” said Kostyshyn.  “Manitoba is committed to reducing our greenhouse-gas emissions and with the assistance of programs like this, Manitoba farms will reduce their carbon footprint and continue to be part of the solution to environmental challenges.”
The minister noted this multi-year program is projected to increase to $1.5 million in support later this year based on revenues expected from the emissions tax on coal that came into effect on Jan. 1.  Transitioning from fossil fuels like coal to renewable biofuels is an important part of Manitoba’s climate-change and energy strategies, he added.
There are two components to the MBESP:

• the consumer support component will provide grants of up to $12,000 to coal users to help offset the price differential between coal and biomass products during the period from Jan. 1 to
  March 31, 2012; and
• the capital component will provide grants of up to $50,000 to help biomass users and processors developing high-quality, renewable biomass products for use in combustion heating systems.  The funds will be used for infrastructure upgrades that are required to effectively manufacture or consume biomass fuel including expansion of existing or development of new capacity.

Applicants may include farms, communities, rural business and industrial users.  Grant applications must be received by March 9.  Application forms can be downloaded from the MAFRI website at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/ or obtained at local MAFRI GO offices.   All applications are processed on a first-come-first-served basis.

- 30 -

BACKGROUND INFORMATION ATTACHED

Way to Go Manitoba - Eat Locally

December 8, 2011

FARM 2 SCHOOL FUNDRAISER SELLS 500,000 POUNDS OF MANITOBA-GROWN VEGETABLES

– – –
Healthy Eating Initiative Raises Over $245,000 for Manitoba Schools: Rondeau

Since September 2011, the Farm 2 School Healthy Choice Fundraiser has sold more than 500,000 pounds of locally grown vegetables to Manitoba families, raising $245,545 for Manitoba schools, Healthy Living, Youth and Seniors Minister Jim Rondeau announced today.
“This outstanding initiative, now in its second year, provides Manitoba schools with a healthy way to raise funds while promoting good nutrition,” said Rondeau.  “This is an important step in our fight against childhood obesity and it also benefits Manitoba farmers and stimulates our economy.”
Participating schools sell bags of Peak of the Market vegetables in $10 and $20 bags, and half the proceeds remain with the school and the other half go back to Manitoba farmers.  To date, this year’s program has sold more than 540,000 pounds of vegetables, which is equivalent to about 13 semi-trailer loads and is more than four times the volume sold in 2010, Rondeau said.
The minister praised the efforts of the program partners, including Peak of the Market, which provides the vegetables at cost and delivers them to participating schools; the Manitoba Association of Home Economists, which co-ordinates the fundraiser; and the 215 schools which participated in this year’s program, up from 66 schools the first year.
“The Farm 2 School veggie fundraiser has exceeded all of our expectations, with each participating school earning an average of $1,065,” said Larry McIntosh, president and CEO of Peak of the Market.  “Having students fundraise for their schools with healthy foods, while helping support Manitoba famers is truly a win for our schools and for all Manitobans.”
“We are proud to be a part of this special initiative, which is putting fresh, delicious Manitoba-grown vegetables on thousands of family dinner tables across Manitoba,” said Getty Stewart, past president of the Manitoba Association of Home Economists.  “The success of this year’s program shows that healthy food fundraising options can raise as much or more than any other school fundraiser, while contributing to the healthy development of our children.”
The Farm 2 School initiative will begin again in September 2012.  Information on the program can be found at www.farmtoschoolmanitoba.ca/.

- 30 -

Changes is WTO Agreements that positively impacts Canadian Producers

November 18, 2011

MINISTER APPLAUDS RULING FROM WORLD TRADE ORGANIZATION ON COUNTRY OF ORIGIN LABELLING

Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Stan Struthers has welcomed the ruling from the World Trade Organization (WTO) issued this morning stating country of origin labelling (COOL) introduced by the United States government is in violation of WTO agreements.
“This ruling proves what we’ve known all along;  these laws discriminate against Canadian producers and distort trade.  They hurt our producers and businesses and have dramatically altered business practice in the formerly integrated North American market,” said Struthers.  “We’ve been there to support our industry through these challenging times and we’ll continue to stand behind producers and ensure they are treated fairly as we move forward.”
The ruling found that:

• Canadian products were treated less favourably than U.S. products,
• COOL created unnecessary obstacles to international trade, and
• COOL did not fulfil a legitimate objective.

The 2002 U.S. farm bill created new mandatory labelling requirements for covered commodities (beef, lamb, pork, fish and shellfish, fruit and vegetables, and peanuts) sold at U.S. retail outlets.  In 2008, these requirements were enshrined in law.  As a result of the implementing regulations, U.S. livestock-processing facilities were required to segregate Canadian and U.S. production.  This had a dramatic effect on Canadian live-animal exports, said Struthers.
The Manitoba government, federal government and several other producer groups argued these laws contravened WTO agreements.
The U.S. had been an important market for Manitoba’s livestock producers, the minister said.  Prior to COOL in 2007, Manitoba producers exported 4.5 million feeder pigs valued at $191 million and 1.6 million slaughter pigs valued at $178 million to the U.S.  In addition, 280,912 of the 516,600 head of feeder and slaughter cattle marketed in 2007 were destined for the U.S., representing a total value of $277 million.
Following the implementation of COOL, Manitoba hog and cattle exports sharply declined and these trends have continued to grow, said Struthers.  For example, in the first year of COOL implementation, exports of slaughter hogs declined 64 per cent from the same period in the previous year.  Exports of feeder pigs were down 19 per cent over the same time frame.  Similarly, exports of slaughter and feeder cattle from Manitoba were down 60 and 33 per cent respectively in the first year of COOL.
“We urge the U.S. government to immediately implement the panel’s findings.  The U.S. is an important and highly valued trading partner and expedited implementation of the ruling will strengthen our trading relationship over the long term,” said Struthers.

- 30 -

November 12, 2008

PROVINCE RELEASES NATIONAL HEMP STRATEGY WITH INDUSTRY PARTNERS


Manitoba’s reputation as a leader in the hemp industry is being reinforced with a national hemp strategy that identifies new opportunities for farmers, processors, researchers and exporters, Agriculture Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced today.

“Manitoba’s farmers and processors are at the leading edge of hemp production,” said Wowchuk. “We are among the earliest adopters of this new crop and the processing technologies needed to create valuable end products. This new strategy shows how far we’ve come while also identifying the opportunities and challenges that we must tackle for sustainable growth.”

Hemp can be used in a wide range of consumer and industrial applications. The National Industrial Hemp Strategy identifies the opportunities and challenges in three categories:
· health and food,
· fibre and industrial oil, and
· production and breeding.

“In the last 10 years, the Canadian hemp industry has grown from an emerging niche market to a point where we are now being recognized as a global leader in hemp production,” said Mike Fata, chair of the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance (CHTA). “With the province’s support, this hemp strategy has given us a road map to new opportunities and the continued growth of the hemp industry in Canada.”

The strategy was introduced at the CHTA’s annual meeting in Winnipeg today. It focuses on the supports needed to grow the industry across Canada including:
· accessing risk capital for processing and manufacturing projects;
· researching domestic and international hemp markets and continued market access;
· quantifying the environmental and economic advantages of using hemp-based products as compared to fossil fuel-based products;
· researching hemp varieties that will meet Canadian needs, on-farm best management practices and processing technologies;
· pursuing regulatory approvals to allow hemp nutrients in animal feed and treats;
· developing commercial hemp-fibre processing;
· creating fibre grading standards to provide consistent quality;
· establishing cost-effective hemp oil processing systems; and
· creating a national industry voice to promote the interests of hemp stakeholders on these issues.

These recommendations were developed through extensive consultations with stakeholders including farmers, processors, marketers and researchers across Canada. The strategy is a joint initiative supported by the federal and provincial governments, the CHTA and the Composites Innovation Centre. Funding was provided by Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Agri-Food Research and Development Initiative.

The market for hemp products is strong and growing in Canada and internationally. Canadian hemp seed exports increased 300 per cent from 2006 to 2007. Hemp oil exports increased 85 per cent and fibre exports increased 65 per cent over the same time frame.

Wowchuk noted this strategy will be shared between provincial governments, hemp industry groups and other stakeholders across Canada to guide future initiatives and investments.

Earlier this fall, the provincial government announced $4 million in provincial loans and grants to kick‑start the development of a world-class hemp facility in Dauphin as part of its ongoing commitment to a strong hemp industry in the province.

Hemp is a natural fibre product from the Cannabis sativa plant and has been used for thousands of years for rope, canvas, paper, clothing and industrial products. It is an environmentally friendly choice for consumers because it is a renewable resource and creates very little waste. All parts of the hemp plant, including the fibre, seed and grain, can be used. More information about industrial hemp production is available at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/crops/hemp/bko01s00.html and www.hemptrade.ca.

The national hemp strategy is available from the Canadian Hemp Trade Alliance at www.hemptrade.ca or info@hemptrade.ca

- 30

September 30, 2008

CONSULTATIONS WITH COMMUNITY LEADERS TO STRENGTHEN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS: WOWCHUK


The province is consulting with a range of key stakeholders on new ideas to strengthen the delivery of economic development programs for rural and northern communities and entrepreneurs, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk announced today.

“Rural and northern Manitobans are making a significant contribution to the strength of the provincial economy by developing innovative bio-products, functional and other food products and manufactured goods, to name a just a few,” said Wowchuk. “Growing the rural and northern economies of the future depends on the ability of entrepreneurs and communities to recognize and seize opportunities, and we’re holding consultations with a wide range of organizations to ensure provincial programs have the greatest benefit possible.”

The consultations have their focus on identifying both strengths and gaps in the way economic development programs are currently delivered, the minister said. The consultations will assist in developing ideas that will build stronger partnerships among government and non-government organizations delivering programs and services to entrepreneurs and communities.

The consultation process builds on the recommendations of the province’s Creating Opportunities report by examining how innovative business ideas can be best supported by economic development agencies and communities.

Results of the stakeholder consultations will be reviewed in October.

- 30 -