Brenda O’Farrell
The Advocate

In June, the Canadian Senate’s agricultural committee unveiled what many farming sector stakeholders describe as a crucial report that could have long-lasting impact on the future of growing food in this country.

Entitled “Critical Ground: Why Soil is Essential to Canada’s Economic, Environmental, Human and Social Health,” the 160-page report put forward 25 key recommendations, including the landmark proposition: Designating soil as a “strategic national asset.”

The recommendations in the study are based on a series of presentations made by researchers, farmers, ranchers during a two-year period.

It has been four decades since the Senate’s agricultural committee produced such a substantive report. The last one, unveiled in 1984, promoted key changes in agricultural practices – including the adoption of no-till planting – that has since become an industry aim.

This report builds on that ground-breaking work in the growing context of climate change.

As the report states in its Forward:

“As we stand on the dawn of a new era defined by environmental challenges and agricultural innovation, the importance of soil health in Canada has never been more profound. This report on the status of soil health in Canada is a testament to our continued commitment to understanding, preserving, and enhancing the very foundation of our country.

“Soil is, and always has been more than mere earth beneath our feet; it is the lifeblood of our nation’s growth, sustenance, and prosperity. From the vast prairies of the West to the resiliency of the North to the fertile valleys of the East, Canada’s soils have sustained generations of farmers, nurtured diverse ecosystems, and supported a thriving agricultural sector that is the envy of the world.

“Yet, the health of our soils is facing unprecedented challenges. Climate change, land degradation, and evolving agricultural practices necessitate a comprehensive understanding of soil dynamics, resilience, and management strategies.”

But in a country as vast as Canada, soil conditions, climate issues and food production challenges vary. What does the report say specifically about Quebec?