b'Bezan noted that Canada faces a competitive disadvantage compared to major global competitors like the United States, Australia, Argentina and Brazil.Another critical challenge highlighted by Bezan is market access. Many Canadian commodities depend on internationalMANY POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS WE OFTEN markets, and ensuring access to these markets is crucial for the agricultural sectors success. Additionally, he stressedHEAR BEING DISCUSSED COULD HARM OUR the importance of educating the public about modern farm- FARMERS AND THE PRODUCTIVITY OF OUR LAND.ing practices and dispelling misconceptions, such as labeling todays family farms as corporate farms. -Jeff BerezaSince my first election in 2004, Ive noticed that many Canadians dont have a clear picture of where their food comes from. Theres often confusion about todays modern family farms, which are sometimes labeled as corporate. These are still family operations, albeit larger and more efficient, Bezan said.We must continue to tell the story of Canadian agricul- COMMUNICATING WITH POLICYMAKERS: ture. Some commodity groups have made strides in this regard,BRIDGING THE GAPusing social media and advertising to educate the public about the industry. Both Bezan and Bereza stressed the need for effective Nevertheless, theres much more work to be done, hecommunication between the agriculture sector and policymakers. said. Canadians need to grasp how vital agriculture is to ourThey noted that policymakers often lack a deep understanding of economy, our way of life, and the quality and safety of the foodagricultural practices and the challenges faced by farmers. Some key on their tables. Its a task that requires ongoing effort to ensuretakeaways on how to bridge this communication gap are:that agricultures importance is widely recognized and appreci-ated across the nation.Engage with Farm Organizations: Farmers should actively participate in farm organizations that regularly interact with political Seed Industry Concerns: Nitrogen Emissions andfigures, Bezan said. These organizations can help convey the Sustainability industrys concerns and educate policymakers.Bereza shed light on the challenges facing the seed sector. He echoed Bezans concerns about the reduction of nitrogen emis-Advocate for the Agriculture Story: It is crucial for those in the sions by 30%, emphasizing that this could have significantagriculture sector to communicate the importance of their work to consequences for Canadian growers. While reducing emissionsurban populations, Bereza noted. Initiatives like open agriculture is a laudable goal, it must be done in a way that does not com- days can help urban residents gain a better understanding of farming promise food production.practices.Farmers are already efficient stewards of the land, carefully Show Appreciation: Urban consumers should recognize the hard managing their resources to produce high-quality crops, Berezawork of farmers and acknowledge the essential role they play in noted.Bereza also stressed the importance of collaborationproviding food security, Bezan added.between farmers, politicians, and the public. He emphasized Collaborative Efforts: According to Bereza, politicians should that agricultural advocacy requires collective efforts to ensurecollaborate across party lines to advocate for agricultures interests, that policymakers understand the complexities and nuances ofensuring that policies are conducive to the industrys growth and the industry. sustainability.Many policy recommendations we often hear being discussed could harm our farmers and the productivity of our land. If such measures are imposed without a full understand-ing of their consequences, we risk losing valuable agricultural output. Its a delicate balance between environmental goals andWatch the full episode of Seed Speaks with Jeff Bereza and James Bezan at ensuring food security for the worlds increasing population,germination.ca/political-persuasionhe said. 44GERMINATION.CANOVEMBER 2023'