This release was issued under a previous government.
The Next Generation Advisory Council will continue to examine ways to engage and support entrepreneurs to lead Alberta’s agriculture, food and rural businesses.
“The average age of agriculture producers in Alberta is 54 and increasing, so we need to attract and retain new entrants into the agriculture industry to support vibrant, sustainable rural communities. The council will continue to make sure the needs of our future agricultural and rural entrepreneurs remain a priority in Alberta.”
“The Council’s vision aligns very closely with the actions already underway through the Rural Economic Development Action Plan. I look forward to continuing to work with the Council as we move forward to strengthen rural life in Alberta.”
“I am pleased that, together with the other members of the Council, we will be able to continue this important work. There are tremendous opportunities in Alberta’s rural and agricultural industries, and I look forward to continuing to engage with government to draw – and keep – new leaders in these fields.”
Over the next 12 months, the Next Generation Advisory Council will continue to advise the government to help focus programs and ensure the needs of the next generation and new entrants are met in the future initiatives developed under the Rural Economic Development Action Plan.
Premier Prentice announced the extension of the council’s mandate at the fall convention of the Alberta Association of Municipal Districts and Counties. The council was created in 2012 and has released its report today.