As noted in the previous issue of CAAR Network, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada released its discussion document: Reducing emissions arising from the application of fertilizer in Canada’s agriculture sector. The discussion document progresses the next steps of the December 2020, Government of Canada Strengthened Climate Plan, “A Healthy Environment and a Healthy Economy.”

CAAR is seeking member feedback and participation to ensure the voice of agri-retailers is heard. CAAR is asking several questions about the discussion document:

• What is the end goal?
• How will Canadian farmers evolve?
• What is the investment exposure?
• What are the risks to Canada’s reputation of high quality and reliable producer of agriculture products?
• Does the strategy strengthen or weaken the long term Canadian agriculture industry goal of $75 billion in agri-food exports by 2025?
• Is synthetic fertilizer a significant contributor to GHG’s compared to like industries or alternative production methods?
• Was the data provided based on models or actual field data replicated over multiple years and conditions?
• Is the mandate lead by sound science or ideology utilizing cherry picked science supporting the call to action?

These are questions CAAR will be asking on behalf of members as feedback on the document is prepared.

AAFC has requested comments to the discussion paper by June 3.

AAFC says that Town hall information sessions will be held the first week of April.  At CAAR, we know members are busy at this time of year, but we are encouraging all agriculture stakeholders to take note and provide input.

CAAR is reaching out to recognized Canadian soil science representatives for perspective and is developing an information resource to support CAAR members in your input to AAFC.

For more information or to discuss concerns about the discussion document, please contact CAAR's Executive Director This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or (204) 989 9303.