CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY
Every year in February, Canadians come together to celebrate Canada’s Agriculture Day. The day serves as a way for Canadians to create a closer connection between consumers, food, and the people who produce it.
Canada is a diverse country with many industries. The service, energy, and manufacturing industries all rank high in Canada. But agriculture doesn’t fall far behind. The country is a major supplier of agricultural products. Canada exports many of these products to other countries. In fact, Canada is the fifth largest exporter of agricultural and agri-food products in the world.
Some of Canada’s top exports include:
- Beef/cattle
- Soybeans
- Pork
- Wheat
- Canola
- Pulses
Canada is also the second-largest exporter of malting barley, which is used to make beer. Over the last ten years, agriculture and agri-food exports grew by 103 percent.
Besides these exports, Canadians are also livestock producers. In 2016, out of the 193,000 farms in Canada, over 37,000 of them were dedicated to raising beef cattle. Other common livestock in Canada includes dairy cattle, hogs, sheep, and goats.
There are also over 4,000 farms dedicated to poultry and egg production.
Other fun facts about agriculture in Canada is that the country is the world’s largest producer of blueberries. The country also produces 85 percent of the world’s maple syrup.
HOW TO OBSERVE #CdnAgDay
There are a variety of agricultural events held in every province across the country. One such event is held in the country’s capital city, Ottawa. During this event, industry leaders across the country give keynote addresses, provide virtual farm tours, and hold panel discussions. Besides attending a Canada Ag Day event, Canadians are encouraged to post a photo or video that celebrates agriculture. They are also encouraged to cook an all-Canadian meal. Some Canadians speak at schools and libraries to teach young people about agriculture. Whether you live in Canada or not, you can show your support by using #CdnAgDay when sharing on social media.
CANADA’S AGRICULTURE DAY HISTORY
Agriculture More Thank Ever created Canada’s Agriculture Day in 2017. Ag More Than Ever strives to be a positive voice for Canadian agriculture. Hundreds of partners and thousands of “agvocates” across the country make up the industry-driven cause. Ag More Than Ever’s goal is to improve perceptions, dispel myths, and create positive dialogue about Canadian agriculture.