ECONOMY, ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Commitment 1.2.1

We will expand the agricultural sector by:

• Supporting training for commercial farmers

Training for commercial farmers

The Government of the Northwest Territories recognizes the need for information sharing to support agricultural production, particularly in specific areas, such as technical expertise for commercial crop and greenhouse techniques. The development and transfer of knowledge and skills in northern contexts is essential to advance NWT food production.

Training and capacity building is one of the six foundational pillars identified in the NWT Agriculture Strategy required to ensure the successful development of the agriculture sector for food producers and residents alike. Through the new Canadian Agricultural Partnership with the federal government, funding for training and capacity building can be advanced (milestone 1).

A successful agriculture sector is dependent on having a sufficient number of interested local producers and processers with specialized skills and expertise in food production.

Training and educational resources will be developed to enable and allow producers to learn from a variety of individuals and experiences, and linkages will be created with partners to develop effective training programs that meet regional and local needs (milestones 2 and 3).

Related Mandate Commitments:

• Commitment 2.5.5 - We will implement programs that support youth in their communities and in their schools to encourage local food production and consumption.
• Commitment 4.3.5 - We will reduce the burden of chronic disease by promoting healthy lifestyles and improving screening and management, with specific focus on:
  • Expanding the production and availability of local foods such as fish, country food, and garden produce.