APAS Calls for Creation of New Drought Preparedness Committee

The Saskatchewan farm organization is calling for the formation of a new committee that would help the province get out in front of mounting drought challenges. 

In a letter to Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit earlier this week, the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) proposed the creation of a provincial drought preparedness committee. The committee would serve several critical functions, including identifying early drought signals and reviewing and providing input on the province’s drought response plan, policies, and proactive measures. 

“The impact of drought on our province's agriculture sector can be devastating, affecting farmers and ranchers, our rural communities and the overall economy,” said Ian Boxall, APAS president. “The recent increase in frequency and severity of drought events underscores the pressing need for immediate action to better prepare for these challenges." 

While recent snowfall has provided some relief, numerous areas across Saskatchewan continue to grapple with the enduring effects of the multiyear drought. The need for substantial precipitation to replenish soil moisture reserves remains critical, underscoring the severity of the situation. 

The drought preparedness committee would also serve other critical functions, including: 

• Resource Allocation: During drought emergencies, the Committee would facilitate resource allocation to support affected farmers and communities. This includes water development and conservation strategies, extension resources, business risk management program supports, and livestock management. 

• Stakeholder Engagement: The Committee would foster collaboration among government agencies, agricultural organizations, research institutions, and community representatives. By facilitating partnerships and sharing expertise, innovative solutions can be developed to build resilience against drought challenges. 

• Long-Term Planning: The Committee would facilitate long-term planning and investment in infrastructure, technology, and research to enhance adaptive capacity and sustainability in the face of drought. 

Boxall said existing business risk management programs play a vital role in safeguarding farm viability against weather-related production risks. However, he also noted that recurring droughts can significantly impact access to these programs through increased premium costs and reduced coverage, particularly for farm operations already operating on narrow profit margins. 

It is imperative to ensure those programs evolve, incorporating tools such as yield cushioning and greenfeed insurance coverage, to assist producers in adapting and managing drought risks effectively, he said. 

The APAS letter to Marit concluded by urging him to prioritize drought resilience and preparedness ahead of the 2024 growing season. 

“The establishment of a drought preparedness committee, coupled with measures such as multiyear yield cushioning, are seen as a proactive and strategic approach to safeguard Saskatchewan agriculture against the growing threat of drought.”