Worrying About Headlines Vs Seeing Opportunities

These past nearly three years have been a roller-coaster ride in the world of farming and ranching.

Global pandemic coupled with market shifts, supply chain interruptions, rising interest rates and inflation, green energy issues, drought and geopolitical tensions leaves me wondering how our producers managed in coping with these challenges and uncertainties. All of the above represent RISK which is part of the business of farming. The agricultural industry is all about ensuring that perishable goods are delivered from gate to plate in the safest and most secure, efficient manner. Farmers and Ranchers see life and death every day. The calf that did not make it or the crop that was devastated by hail…this is all part of their business cycle. That is why farming is a lifestyle AND a business. The care factor is off the scale when it comes to producing perishable goods.

 
The farming community is very passionate and they see opportunities in a glass that is half-full.

 
Are we entering a New Era and what does this look like in the world of farming? It starts with the hand-off to the new generation of producers. Next is utilizing technology and innovation, creating new value chains, and getting all stakeholders from moms to politicians to understand that we all need to share a sense of fellowship and goodwill.

 
Alberta is blessed with rich resources and is an agricultural powerhouse. I see challenges that create more opportunities. I have said this before, it takes a village and a province like Alberta to feed the world.

Your thoughts are always appreciated

Take care

Fred Mertz

Fred@thevoiceofagriculture.ca