APAS writes letter concerning Saskatchewan farmland ownership

The Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS) has sent a letter to the provincial government, laying out their views on Saskatchewan farmland ownership.

President Bill Prybylski, who farms in the Willowbrook area, just west of Yorkton, was quick to say he has no proof of foreign farmland ownership being an issue in Saskatchewan.

Prybylski is concerned that the price of farmland could be inflated by outside interests.

He suggests Saskatchewan needs an ownership verification process.

Prybylski also wants to insure that foreign ownership restrictions are in place.

He says the financing of a farmland purchase must be closely scrutinized.

Prybylski adds that charitable land ownership must also be monitored.

He's calling for the provincial government to enhance the regulatory frameworks.

Prybylski would also like to see broader policy discussions beyond the act itself.

And he hopes the APAS letter will help the provincial government determine the best way forward.  

Prybylski says the advisory committee's report is supposed to be in the hands of Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Daryl Harrison by the end of November.