Get to know your prairie grasslands
Canada’s prairies are some of the most productive environments in the world. Why? For thousands of years, the natural prairie grassland has functioned as a complex ecosystem and a source of the rich deep soils that farmers depend on to grow the crops we need.
Ecosystems like those in our prairie grasslands help build resilience in the face of threats such as climate change and invasive species. A healthy prairie environment can mitigate drought, remove harmful toxins due to runoff, and even help control flooding.
The promise of regenerative agriculture
More and more, Canadian farmers and agricultural enterprises recognize the need to move away from conventional agriculture to farming that does more to regenerate our natural ecosystems. That’s because over time, conventional agriculture may have contributed to soil erosion and a gradual loss of productivity.
It’s one of the reasons there’s an emerging consensus that the future for Canadian agriculture and agri-food lies in embracing regenerative agriculture. Our farmers need the best tools available – the question is, what are they?
Digital and precision agriculture
Look no further than digital and precision agriculture.
Let’s start with the digital part first. Paying attention to ecosystem health and diversity means using sophisticated digital technology to track what’s happening in the fields. Drones and remote sensing equipment can monitor wildlife, insects, moisture levels, and soil conditions. When that information is combined with GIS, AI and climate data, producers can start to see exactly how and why enhanced diversity and soil health contribute to higher productivity.
Meanwhile, the precision part of this new approach promises the use of less destructive and more agile equipment. From helping farmers harvest without disturbing the soil, to minimizing expensive inputs, precision agriculture offers a path forward to scalable and sustainable practices on Canada’s farms.
Market demand across the world
The more Canadian producers can build regenerative and sustainable agriculture, the better placed they’ll be to compete in a world where demand for food that is both sustainable and nutritious is increasing.
Get involved. Get upskilled.
For all of this to happen quickly, Canadian producers need access to talent, which means you have an opportunity to be part of the agricultural future right now!
The Digital Agriculture Fundamentals program from Palette Skills is a fast-paced and innovative upskilling opportunity that equips participants with automation and digitization skills for agricultural production. Participants get the chance to build sought-after professional skills to help them adapt and succeed in today’s digital and precision ag workplace.
Developed in partnership with industry leaders, researchers, and entrepreneurs, the program is pioneering a new way for employers to source the workers they need to grow. Find out more about Palette’s Digital Agriculture Fundamentals program by downloading the course guide!
