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AgTalk: The Do More Agriculture Foundation announces partnership renewal for mental health across agriculture

The Do More Agriculture Foundation (Do More Ag) proudly announces the renewal of AgTalk, Canada’s premiere online space in the agriculture sector for mental health connection and community. AgTalk is a specialty agricultural community within the powerful online site Togetherall. On Togetherall, individuals 16+ can anonymously and safely connect, share, and receive support from a community of peers who also understand the pressures of farming, and the pressures of staying mentally well. Backed by 24/7 clinical moderation, hundreds of people have found strength within AgTalk since its inception in 2023. One said, “I like that this is a place where I can express myself without judgement.”

Recognizing the challenges across agriculture when it comes to mental health, BASF Agricultural Solutions Canada Inc., RBC Foundation, and The McCain Foundation are once again partnering with Do More Ag for AgTalk.

“The renewal of AgTalk marks a powerful step forward in creating accessible mental health supports in agriculture,” said Sartaj Sarkaria, Chair of The Do More Agriculture Foundation. “We know that mental health can be hard to talk about, especially in rural and agricultural communities. That’s why we’re committed to supporting AgTalk—because connection saves lives. By continuing to invest in safe, anonymous, peer-driven spaces like this, we’re sending a clear message: no one in agriculture has to struggle alone.”

“At RBC, we recognize that the well-being of our agricultural producers is just as important as the work they do to feed our country,” said Lorna McKercher, National Director Agriculture, RBC.  “Mental health challenges can be isolating, especially in rural and remote areas where farmers and producers may not have access to in-person services. That’s why RBC Foundation is proud to support AgTalk and The Do More Agriculture Foundation, helping to provide a safe and accessible space where those in agriculture can connect, share, and find the support they need, whenever they need it.”

With over 10,000 interactions since its launch, AgTalk is a key resource. More than 60% of AgTalk users are not receiving any formal mental health support, and one third of users access no mental health support at all outside AgTalk. Many people who turn to AgTalk are at risk: fully one in three AgTalk users had considered suicide and over 10% had made an attempt to end their life. The top five issues for AgTalk users are stress, depression, anxiety, loneliness, and relationships. AgTalk users come from right across Canada, right across ages, gender, and ethnic backgrounds.There is no doubt: AgTalk is meeting critical mental health needs and is making a difference.

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Residue Management conservation practice manages the amount, orientation, and distribution of crop and other plant residue on the soil surface year-round while limiting soil-disturbing activities used to grow and harvest crops in systems where the field surface is tilled prior to planting. This video explores how Ryan McKenzie implemented this conservation practice on his farm in Samson, Alabama.

Practice benefits:

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The Conservation at Work video series was created to increase producer awareness of common conservation practices and was filmed at various locations throughout the country. Because conservation plans are specific to the unique resource needs on each farm and also soil type, weather conditions, etc., these videos were designed to serve as a general guide to the benefits of soil and water conservation and landowners should contact their local USDA office for individual consultation.