A reader offers his opinion on how new technology in agriculture like automated machinery is altering the environment in Saskatchewan.
Published Apr 06, 2024 • Last updated 1 day ago • 1 minute read
I recognize there are many farmers who are conscientious stewards of the land. However, the trend in Saskatchewan farm ownership is moving towards bigger and bigger farms.
There are farm corporations, some international, that own and manage huge amounts of land (some exceeding 300,000 acres) in Saskatchewan.
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A standard practice in acquiring new properties is to clear obstructions because auto steering of farm machinery is becoming the norm. The most efficient way this new technology system works is to clear the fields of trees, bushes, sloughs and any structure that may impede seeding and harvesting.
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The unfortunate outcome of this is we have areas in Saskatchewan that at one time were pocketed by sloughs and brush, but are now open areas with no standing water or tree lines.
This may lead to more efficient farming and greater profits for the farmer (corporation or family); however, it is a disaster for the environment and very short-sighted for the health of the land.
We know from recent bird and wild animal counts that most species of both are down to the point that some, particularly songbirds, are at a critical number moving in the direction of extinction.
We also know that trees, bush, and wetlands, besides species habitat, assist in carbon storage and are fundamental to a healthy environment. I strongly encourage the Saskatchewan government to further regulate farm development with more environmental considerations.
Joe Monahan, Saskatoon
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