16 August 2025 TOP LEFT: MAGR80 - ADOBE STOCK | MY WATERCOLORS - ADOBE STOCK | DAR - ADOBE STOCK | TRENDY IMAGE TWO - ADOBE STOCK | HANNA - ADOBE STOCK | TOP RIGHT: ARINAHABICH - ADOBE STOCK | BOTTOM: UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA UNIVERSITY OF MANITOBA AGROECOLOGY (BSC) The Agroecology program gives students an understanding of how to achieve economically sustainable agricultural production while conserving resources and maintaining the integrity of our ecosystems. Quite a juggling act that is playing out with agroecology students as part of the 30,000-student body at the University of Manitoba. A LITE LOOK AT MARVELOUS MANITOBA ARTICLE BY JULIE HARLOW MANITOBA FARMING FACTS • The canola plant was bred by Dr. Baldur Stefansson and Dr. Keith Downey at the University of Manitoba. (Economic Development Winnipeg) • Now, Manitoba remains a dominant canola growing force. In 2020, Manitoba produced 3.2 million tonnes of canola, accounting for 17 per cent of Canadian production. • Manitoba’s agriculture sector is a significant economic driver for the province, employing 23,180 people directly in 2020. • Manitoba has the highest average number of pigs per farm in Canada—over 5,000 pigs/farm. Also, home to Canada’s largest bacon processing facility. • Not only is the bison a symbol of Manitoba, but the province is also home to the third-largest bison population in the country with 86 farms raising 14,025 bison, according to the most recent data. (Canadian Bison Association) • Manitoba is also Canada’s second-largest potato producer following Prince Edward Island. • Although not agricultural, it is food, Pizza Pops were born here! They were invented in Winnipeg in 1964 by Paul Faraci. But when it comes to farming to scale…small farm Manitoba has some big ideas. DIRECT FARM MANITOBA The voice for the farmers’ market and small-scale farm sectors in Manitoba. Direct Farm Manitoba is a member-owned cooperative of direct marketing farmers and farmers’ markets with unique provincial programming. They support their members to achieve industry fairness and maximize their opportunities for economic sustainability. By helping our farms and farmers’ markets, we help all Manitobans make better decisions about the food on our tables. Direct Farm Manitoba have some amazing programs and courses available in two categories for new vendors that includes essential for start-up like booth set-up, tool-kit, marketing and more. The second category is related to health including health permits, commercial kitchen requirements, food handler training and more. YOUNG AGRARIANS MANITOBA Young Agrarians’ Canadian network supports new and young ecological, organic, and regenerative farmers. Young Agrarians’ work in Manitoba is especially focused on helping aspiring farmers get started, build skills, and connect with a supportive community. • YA APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAM: Offers immersive, paid, hands-on learning experiences on farms across Manitoba. • COMMUNITY GARDENS: A great entry point for those not ready to commit full-time. • VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES: Includes partnerships with organizations like WWOOF and local food initiatives. • EDUCATIONAL EVENTS: Mixers, farm tours, and workshops help build community and share knowledge. Young Agrarians Manitoba supports farmers in cities like Winnipeg, Steinbach, and Brandon. They also promote local events like the Direct Farm Manitoba Conference, Harvest Moon Festival, and Ducks Unlimited Grazing Clubs.
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