Major Conference On Sustainable Agriculture

* Agriculture and Forestry [to Oct 2003]
The Prince Edward Island Department of Agriculture and Forestry, in conjunction with the Soil and Crop Improvement Association, is sponsoring a major conference on sustainable agriculture on April 7 and 8 at the Charlottetown Hotel. The conference is the result of a resolution passed unanimously in the provincial legislature which called for discussions on the future direction of agriculture in Prince Edward Island.

"This conference is the first of its kind which brings together everyone involved in the agriculture and food industry to discuss ways of improving the sustainable management of our resources and the marketing of our products," said Agriculture and Forestry Minister Eric Hammill. "I encourage everyone interested in these issues to come and discuss current trends and issues and share their ideas."

The conference will feature presentations on the relationship between agriculture, the environment and rural communities, sustainable production options and the branding of Prince Edward Island food products. The development of a "PEI Brand" is a key component of the new Food Strategy for the province. The conference will feature presentations by local producers and market development officials, and by guest speakers from out-of province who will share their experiences marketing products from sustainably managed resources.

"The agriculture and food industry is the major contributor to the Prince Edward Island economy, and that contribution continues to increase," said Mr. Hammill. "The production and marketing of high value, high quality products from sustainably managed resources is of crucial importance in its future growth and development."

To pre-register, call 1 (800) 959-8929.

Media Contact: Wayne MacKinnon