PEI farm leaders agree on need to work together for industry to flourish

The million-acre farm needs to plow in the same direction if farming and food production is going to flourish, according to reactions to a draft report recently delivered by the (Prince Edward Island) Commission on the Future of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

The Island is just one big mixed farm, said Brookfield farmer Eddie Dykerman.

Were all dependent on each other so we have to look to each other as co-workers.

Dykerman is a member of the commission that unveiled some ambitious recommendations for agriculture in a draft report that will now go to public meetings for final tweaking in November.

But while its easy to develop recommendations, the real challenge will be to ensure they are acted upon, says the chair of the Federation of Agriculture.

A long-term vision for agriculture is great but we also need to help farmers in the short term, said John Colwill of Northam.

It is no good to have a long-term vision for agriculture if there are no farmers, just as it is no good to have farmers without a long-term vision.

The new report, The Island Way, is the result of a 14-member panel compiling ideas and directions to bring pride and prosperity back to the PEI farm. The panel was made up mostly of industry members.

Ive only had a brief look at it, but I think we need to focus on a change of direction, said Agriculture Minister Neil Leclair who attended the launch at the Farm Centre in Charlottetown.

I have every belief that agriculture will not die and people will start to realize the importance of good, safe and local food. They are starting to now, but it doesnt mean the producer is getting paid.

The report, delivered by co-chairs Rory Francis and Dr. Ed Tyrchniewicz, recommends more co-operation, knowledge, research and market-led culture as the keys to success.

The report contends food production contributions to the GDP could double by 2015 and encourages a 50 per cent reduction in pesticides.

Francis said the consumer will not shy away from paying a few extra cents for high-quality PEI food that caters to niche markets and demands.

Its a good start and they left out the nuts and bolts deliberately to encourage more consultation at the public and industry meetings forthcoming, said Mike Nabuurs, executive director of the PEI Agriculture Federation.

Industry cant continue to blame government when it needs to organize and provide professional representation to develop policies.

Many officials said potato producers led the way earlier this summer whenarmed with market and supply knowledgethey were able to negotiate a better contract with Cavendish Farms.

Im a firm believer that farmers have to take responsibility for their own future, said Dykerman.

We cant blame someone else, were all integrated here on this Island and we have to work together. The Guardian