Innovation in agriculture is vital for competitiveness and growth. But generating new research is only the first step. Getting these new scientific discoveries and technologies from the lab directly to farmers in the field is just as critical.
This is where agricultural extension and advisory services play a vital role. They are the driving forces behind agricultural growth and productivity, acting as the bridge to ensure research results reach key stakeholders like farmers and are incorporated into agricultural practices.
Extension helps farmers understand technical knowledge, adopt new production techniques and improved farming practices, ultimately helping them improve their production, income, and quality of life. Prompt adoption of research on the ground requires skilled extension specialists and highly educated producers.
Extension services are provided by a variety of actors, including public programs, industry associations and commodity groups, professional agrologists, and the private sector.
Despite the critical role extension plays, challenges exist, such as skilled labour shortages and the need for common analytics platforms and rural broadband to help farmers realize the full potential of new digital technologies and information.
Strengthening extension efforts is essential to ensure research is adopted promptly and that new knowledge and technologies effectively respond to end-users’ needs, contributing to Canada’s agricultural productivity and competitiveness.
