The Executive Director of Farm and Food Care Saskatchewan says survey responses from those who took part in last month's Open Farm Days were overwhelmingly positive.
The third edition of the annual event was held August 8 and 9 at 38 participating farms across the province. People could learn the basics of a farming operation during a bus tour or a self-guided tour.
Clinton Monchuk says this year's attendance exceeded expectations – over 5,000 visitors going to 37 different locations in the province with two sold out bus tours and a third that was 75 per cent sold. Its more attendance compared to last year which drew over 4,000 people.
"This year was the best year we've ever had," stated Monchuk. "So we could see that there's just strong demand from people who want to know more about their food, and I think this is a great opportunity for people to partner in the future and expand the opportunity for the building of trust when it comes to agriculture."
He has received feedback from some who attended Open Farm Days that weekend, noting most who were surveyed indicated that they "increased their understanding and perception" of agriculture.
"That just highlights to us and highlights to the agriculture industry that the more we talk about agriculture to consumers and make sure we have open, transparent conversations with them, the better the understanding is. This leads to better food literacy and a better understanding of agriculture in general." he said,
As for host feedback, Monchuk said he heard back from most who "had an absolutely wonderful experience" and "wanted to participate again", while some that weren't positive "were probably in areas that just didn't have the high amount of traffic."
He said the positive and constructive comments will help them adjust for a better event in 2027.
"So we're looking forward to continuing this program into the future and definitely see a lot of success."
He said any farm that is interested in participating next year can visit the Farm and Food Care Saskatchewan website.
(With files from Doug Falconer, CJGX)
