Author: Owen Roberts

Rural areas face will face greater challenges in resuming economic activity following the pandemic. The lack of rural amenities, education and infrastructure – although high speed internet is finally coming – will continue to make it tough to attract and keep skilled labour. A more targeted approach with greater industry – community action may be part of the solution. Photo: infrastructurecanada.ca

Five years ago, research at the U of G revealed just how poorly many farmers were coping with tough conditions on and off the farm. Since then, there’s been a flurry of mental health programs rolled out and destigmatizing discussions in the media? Have they helped? A new survey aims to find out. Photo: Ruralhealthinfo.org

Animal activists in Colorado are pushing for a state ballot that could devastate livestock production in that state. Their proposals regarding minimum livestock lifespans and banned artificial insemination promise to raise meat prices through the roof and threaten gains made in healthier, better producing animals through decades of careful breeding.
Photo: denverpost.com

The outlook for Canada’s food and beverage processing industries is optimistic says Farm Credit Canada. But it’s a different story for the institutional food sector where hired help is hard to find. Farmers in Norfolk County are also experiencing labour problems with new local public health requirements for temporary international workers, just as they start to arrive. Photo: cbc.ca