Agricultural innovation as strategic strength BY ERIN DEBOOY
As technology becomes increasingly embedded in the sector, the ability to develop and adopt new tools could help Manitoba strengthen productivity while creating new opportunities for companies that serve agriculture.
W ith the agriculture producers and agri-businesses are not only keeping up; they’re also positioning the province to be a leader in the industry. “I think ag-tech is the real shin- ing star in really engaging producers to adapt to new technologies,” says Jill Verwey, president of Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP). “Anything that's going to save time, reduce our labour costs and optimize our bottom line is really exciting.” sector evolving rapidly through technology and innovation, Manitoba
The stakes extend beyond individ- ual farms. Agriculture is a significant contributor to Manitoba’s economy, supporting producers, processors, manufacturers and a wide network of businesses and jobs across the province. As technology becomes increasingly embedded in the sector, the ability to develop and adopt new tools could help Manitoba strengthen productivity while creating new opportunities for companies that serve agriculture. As producers across the province manage their operations, they seek to manage risk, says Jacqueline Keena,
New technology and innovation in agriculture has been well-received by current producers, Verwey says, but it’s also shown the next generation what opportunities are available in agriculture going forward. “The dedication of our producers here in the province, and the resil- iency and innovation that they have shown, sets us apart,” Verwey says. “I think producers are willing to take on those challenges and invest in their farming operations, and that leads to our desire as producers to pass our farming operations onto the next generation.”
24
WINTER 2026
Powered by FlippingBook