Non Partisan Association

Agriculture represents a foundational pillar of Alberta's economy and society, providing essential food production, generating substantial economic activity, and sustaining rural communities across the province. The sector's importance extends well beyond farm-gate production to encompass processing, services, and community vitality.

Economic Contribution

Economic Dimension	Significance
Primary Production	Direct employment and revenue from farming operations
Value-Added Processing	Meat processing, grain milling, food manufacturing employment
Export Revenue	International sales bringing foreign currency into Alberta
Multiplier Effects	Input purchases supporting equipment, services, supply chains
Rural Economy	Foundation of economic activity in rural communities

Agricultural activity generates economic multiplier effects throughout supply chains, supporting businesses and employment well beyond farm operations themselves.

Food Security

Domestic agricultural production provides foundational food security that cannot be replicated through import dependence:

• Supply Resilience: Local production reduces vulnerability to international supply disruptions
• Price Stability: Domestic capacity provides buffer against global price volatility
• Quality Assurance: Canadian food safety standards applied throughout production chain
• Climate Adaptation: Local production adapts to regional conditions and changing climate

As global agricultural systems face increasing stress from climate change, population growth, and resource constraints, domestic production capacity becomes increasingly strategic.

Rural Community Vitality

Agriculture provides the economic foundation for rural community sustainability:

• Employment Base: Agricultural operations and supporting services employ rural residents
• Service Support: Agricultural economic activity sustains schools, healthcare, and local businesses
• Cultural Heritage: Agricultural traditions contribute to community identity and social cohesion
• Land Stewardship: Farm families maintain productive landscapes and rural character

Economic Diversification

Agriculture contributes to economic diversification beyond resource extraction, providing stability through commodity price cycles and offering growth opportunities in:

• Value-added processing and manufacturing
• Agri-tourism and direct-to-consumer markets
• Agricultural technology development and export
• Sustainable and organic production premium markets

Supporting agricultural sector development strengthens Alberta's economic resilience while maintaining the productive landscapes and vibrant rural communities that define the province's character.