Ministers of Agriculture Reach Agreement on Growing Forward 2

Sep 14, 2012

Innovation, Competitiveness and Market Development Target Priorities in Growing Forward 2

The Ministers of Agriculture from the federal, provincial and territorial governments have reached a five year agreement for the Growing Forward 2 policy framework. One of the key highlights is a 50% increase in cost-sharing initiatives for non-Business Risk Management (BRM) that seeks to spur innovation and marketing development. There will also be the creation of an effective suite of BRM programs that will be able to protect farmers against severe market volatility and disasters. Provinces will also be given some more flexibility to tailor the various government programs to meet their unique needs. There has been some headway that will allow provinces and territories to be equipped with resources necessary to be able to invest in environmental on-farm projects. There will also be the continuation of ongoing support for risk management programs.

“Just as farmers continuously improve their business practices, so too have governments made adjustments to help Canada remain a world leader in agricultural innovation and trade,” said Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "Growing Forward 2 will help drive economic growth and long-term prosperity through agricultural innovation and market development, while also ensuring governments continue to share the risk of severe market volatility and disasters."

The policy framework will focus on trade with several key export markets, including South Korea, Japan, China and Europe. Gaining market access, reducing interprovincial trade barriers and working towards reducing the regulatory burden will be the focus over the next five years. The new agreement will phase in April 1, 2013 when the current framework expires.

Video: Industry–University Collaborations in Swine Research - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt and Matt Einarson

In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show, Dr. Jordan Gebhardt from Kansas State University and Matt Einarson from SAM Nutrition explore how academic–industry partnerships are driving innovation in swine nutrition. They share how collaborations support graduate training, create credibility, and translate research into practical strategies for producers. Discover real trial outcomes, sustainability initiatives, and why bridging science with industry is essential for the future. Listen now on all major platforms!

"The partnership with universities allows research to stay current, answering real questions that nutritionists and producers are asking today." - Dr. Jordan Gebhardt

Meet the guest: Dr. Jordan Gebhardt / jordan-gebhardt-9a6b4b120 , Associate Professor of Swine Production at Kansas State University, combines expertise in veterinary medicine and applied swine nutrition to improve herd health and productivity through research and student training. Matt Einarson / matt-einarson-7a00a123 , Vice President of Sales and Business Development North America at SAM Nutrition, brings more than two decades of leadership in global agribusiness, specializing in strategy, market development, and feed innovation.