COLUMN: Report from the Legislature – The importance of agriculture

Fall is one of my favourite times of the year. Watching the leaves change from green to orange signals the beginning of the end of the current year, and a new beginning ahead.

This month, thousands of Manitoba students returned to the classroom. Whether elementary, middle school, high school, or post-secondary education, September is the mark of a new academic year. It is now again time to pack boxed lunches, enjoy recess time with friends, and begin fall and winter sports.

Fall isn’t only about the new school year. Farmers who have deep roots in the Springfield – Ritchot constituency are busy with their fall harvest. Many may not know that Springfield was responsible for the first wheat shipment from Manitoba.

On Oct. 21, 1876, wheat was shipped on a Red River Steamer. Robert McDonald, Alex Dick, and John Speer sent 857 bushels out of Manitoba. At the time, wheat cost $0.85 per bushel. Today that same bushel can cost anywhere from $8 to over $10. The wheat shipment was used for seed in Ontario which had an impact right across Canada. A monument commemorating this historic day for our province was constructed by the Springfield Agricultural Society in 1967 and can be seen in Dugald.

Producing quality food for Manitoba and places around the world remains a cornerstone of our economy. In times like today where we face a trade war with the United States, it is important that we recognize the important work that our farmers do right here in our own community.

As uncertainty among trade tariffs continues, it is important that we continue the relationships with Ontario and other provinces across Canada as we continue to support our country.

As your MLA, I am honoured to represent the students, farmers, and all community members in Springfield – Ritchot. I welcome your questions, comments and concerns to Ron@RonSchuler.com or by mail at Box 150, Oak Bank, MB R0E 1J0.