The Manitoba government is strengthening support for farmers and rural communities with two new Manitoba Agricultural Services Corporation (MASC) offices in Virden and Shoal Lake, Agriculture Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced Friday.
“Our government is committed to ensuring Westman farmers have the tools and support they need to succeed after the previous government closed these offices,” said Kostyshyn. “By opening new MASC offices in Virden and Shoal Lake, we are making it easier for producers to access programs and services closer to home, where they are needed most.”
The new offices will improve access to MASC programs and services, providing more convenient, in-person support for crop insurance, lending and other key resources, the minister said.
MASC plays a vital role in supporting the province’s agriculture sector through risk management, financing, and advisory services, noted the minister, adding that the new locations are part of the Manitoba government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen rural communities.
“The Town of Virden is so pleased to welcome the MASC offices back,” said Mayor Tina Williams, Town of Virden. “The value of having a local office for our surrounding farm communities cannot be overstated.”
The Virden and Shoal Lake offices are now open to serve 650 to 700 farmers and agri-businesses in the surrounding regions. Each new service centre is staffed by four full-time employees and a team of insurance adjustors.
MASC now has 12 service centres across the province providing access to agricultural insurance, lending and other agricultural programs and services.
For more information on MASC programs and services, visit www.masc.mb.ca.
