AITC SK launches third Acres for Education campaign

Oct 13, 2025
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Assistant Editor, North American Content, Farms.com

Bringing agriculture to life for thousands of students

Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan (AITC-SK) is encouraging farmers, ranchers, and agri-businesses across the province to participate in the third annual Acres for Education fundraising campaign. This initiative helps bring agriculture to life for thousands of students by connecting them to real-world farming experiences.

Every dollar donated to the campaign supports hands-on programs that introduce students to food production, sustainability, and modern agricultural careers. These learning opportunities are offered to schools at no cost, ensuring that all students—regardless of background—gain a better understanding of where their food comes from and the people who grow it.

Since its launch in 2023, Acres for Education has raised over $110,000, helping expand agriculture education and foster stronger community connections. This year’s campaign has an even greater impact thanks to JGL, which has pledged to match every donation up to $25,000, effectively doubling the value of each contribution.

“Every dollar donated is a direct investment in our province’s future,” said Sara Shymko, Executive Director of AITC-SK. “We know agriculture education matters in building informed consumers — and with JGL matching every gift, this is the moment for our community to come together and make a real impact.”

JGL’s Director of Marketing and Philanthropy, Melissa MacLean, added that investing in education builds the foundation for agriculture’s future. The campaign runs until December 31, 2025, and donations can be made online at aitc.sk.ca/acresforeducation.

Through continued community support, AITC-SK aims to inspire curiosity, build confidence in agriculture, and strengthen the connection between classrooms and the province’s farming roots.

Photo Credit: pexels-fauxels

Video: Dicamba Returns for Georgia Farmers: What the New EPA Ruling Means for Cotton Growers

After being unavailable in 2024 due to registration issues, dicamba products are returning for Georgia farmers this growing season — but under strict new conditions.

In this report from Tifton, Extension Weed Specialist Stanley Culpepper explains the updated EPA ruling, including new application limits, mandatory training requirements, and the need for a restricted use pesticide license. Among the key changes: a cap of two ½-pound applications per year and the required use of an approved volatility reduction agent with every application.

For Georgia cotton producers, the ruling is significant. According to Taylor Sills with the Georgia Cotton Commission, the vast majority of cotton planted in the state carries the dicamba-tolerant trait — meaning farmers had been paying for technology they couldn’t use.

While environmental groups have expressed concerns over spray drift, Georgia growers have reduced off-target pesticide movement by more than 91% over the past decade. Still, this two-year registration period will come with increased scrutiny, making stewardship and compliance more important than ever.