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Agricultural literacy: impacts that last decades.

Agricultural literacy is the understanding of the relationship between agriculture and the environment, food, fibre, technology, and the economy. Now more than ever, it’s crucial for students to develop agricultural literacy in order to make positive contributions to the environment for decades to come.

When students’ agricultural education is fostered, it helps them clarify the link between how modern agriculture, gardening, and plant growth play a valuable role in food production, health, and sustainability. When students understand these concepts and their interconnectivity, they are able to make more informed choices today and in the future.

Do your students know the agriculture industry offers a variety of careers, on and off the farm? This includes engineers, scientists, and tradespeople from mines, production plants, and labs. The agriculture industry also employs a wide range of people in fields such as communications, education, or business. Being agriculturally literate provides student a better understanding of what careers exist, enabling them to impact the environment and their communities throughout their lives.

Agricultural literacy also contributes to sound environmental decision-making. By gaining crucial insights, students are made aware of specific soil conservation practices promoted by the agriculture industry and implemented by many farmers across Canada, such as 4R Nutrient Stewardship (Right Source @ Right Rate, Right Time, Right Place®). Ultimately, students acquire the ability to analyze the soil and water conservation practices used on Canadian farms and determine how they can be implemented in their home and when making daily decisions.

By fostering the next generation’s agricultural literacy, the Canadian education system is ensuring positive environmental efforts are being made for years to come.