Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

Manitoba recommits to 4R nutrient stewardship

Manitoba recommits to 4R nutrient stewardship

The provincial government and an ag organization signed a memorandum of understanding continuing to 2024

By Diego Flammini
Staff Writer
Farms.com

The Manitoba ag community has signaled it will continue to practice nutrient stewardship going forward.

Keystone Agricultural Producers, the Government of Manitoba and Fertilizer Canada signed a fourth memorandum of understanding (MOU) to reaffirm a commitment to the 4R Nutrient Stewardship framework.

The MOU runs until Dec. 31, 2024.

This commitment helps farmers find a balance between crop nutrition and environmental challenges, said Derek Johnson, Manitoba’s minister of agriculture.

“Farmers continue to recognize the responsible use and application of nutrients in their operations is fundamental to their ability to put affordable and healthy food on plates across the globe,” he said in a statement. “By applying nutrients using the 4R principles, they maximize fertilizer performance and minimize effects on the environment.”

Fertilizer Canada also helps farmers adopt and learn about 4R practices.

When it comes to water, for example, the organization provided $150,000 over three years to fund workshops and learning tools for Manitoba farmers.

“Manitoba continues to show its commitment and dedication to climate-smart agriculture practices,” Karen Proud, president and CEO of Fertilizer Canada, said in a statement. “We are pleased to continue this partnership that offers farmers sustainable solutions for their crops.”

Two other provinces have already signed recent MOUs, with P.E.I. and Ontario signing on in March.


Trending Video

Ag Matters Podcast - Episode 2: Why Public Trust Matters

Video: Ag Matters Podcast - Episode 2: Why Public Trust Matters

In this episode, we explore the topic of public trust in agriculture with two incredible guests: Susie Miller from the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops and Jackie Dudgeon-MacDonald, a lifelong farmer and advocate for Canadian farming.

Susie provides insights into the role of policy and industry standards in supporting sustainability and transparency, highlighting how collaborative efforts shape Canadian crops' future. Jackie shares her unique experience as a farmer managing grain and cattle operations, balancing family life, and navigating direct-to-consumer relationships. Together, they unpack the meaning of public trust, the importance of transparency in farming practices, and how meaningful connections with consumers can strengthen the bond between farmers and the public.

This episode offers a real, behind-the-scenes look at how Canadian agriculture is striving to earn and maintain consumers' trust—now and for future generations.