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Sustainability vs. Economics

  • Writer: Anne Vien
    Anne Vien
  • Jan 28
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 9

Canola fields in Saskatchewan are stunning, but there’s more to the story than just those gorgeous yellow flowers. To make room for all those canola crops, we've had to clear out native plant species, which disrupts the natural ecosystem. Let’s dive into the balance between keeping canola farming eco-friendly while still making it profitable—because, after all, farmers need to eat too! Canola is a huge deal for Saskatchewan’s economy. In 2022-23, the canola industry generated an estimated $22.54 billion in direct economic activity in the province, making it the top contributor to Saskatchewan's agricultural income, surpassing other major crops like spring wheat and barley. From canola oil in your kitchen to protein-packed animal feed and even biofuels for cars, canola truly does it all.


Photo Credits: Getty Images on Unsplash
Photo Credits: Getty Images on Unsplash

Growing canola takes a toll on the environment. Fertilizers and pesticides help the plants grow, but they can harm the soil, water, and various species that depend on the land. Tiny creatures like earthworms, beneficial insects such as ladybugs, and crucial pollinators like bees are all affected. Birds that rely on native plants for food and nesting, such as meadowlarks and sparrows, may struggle to find suitable habitats when canola fields replace native ecosystems. Many wildflowers and grasses, like milkweed and prairie sage, are also displaced, which further disrupts the food chain and biodiversity in the area. Even aquatic species, like frogs and fish, can suffer when fertilizer runoff contaminates nearby rivers and wetlands. Plus, planting the same crop repeatedly makes the land more vulnerable to pests and diseases, compounding the ecological imbalance. Not cool, right?


It’s not just about what happens on the farm, either. Runoff from fertilizers can end up in rivers and lakes, affecting water quality and wildlife far from the fields. This means that while canola farming is super important, it also needs a little extra care to make sure it doesn’t cause big problems down the road. 


Farmers are total problem-solvers, though, and they are constantly coming up with strategies to make canola crops more sustainable. Growing different crops each year keeps the soil healthier and reduces pests. This crop rotation is like giving the soil a chance to recharge. Scientists are also making stronger canola plants that don’t need as many chemicals to survive. These new plants can resist diseases and pests all on their own, which means fewer pesticides sprayed on fields. Some farmers are learning to use just the right amount of fertilizer, so there’s less waste and less risk of harming the environment. 


Keeping canola farming sustainable isn’t just about saving the environment (though that’s super important). It’s also about making sure we can keep growing food and fueling our cars without running out of resources, but it’s also for the environment, ensuring that the land, water, and biodiversity remain healthy for future generations. Plus, healthier farming means happier farmers—and who doesn’t love happy farmers? Supporting sustainable farming practices also helps communities stay strong. When farmers succeed, they can support local businesses, create jobs, and keep rural areas thriving. It’s all connected, and it’s why finding a balance between sustainability and economics is so important.

So, next time you see those yellow fields, think about all the hard work and smarts that go into growing them. Canola isn't just a pretty face—it’s a powerhouse crop working hard for Saskatchewan and beyond!



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© 2024  by Anne Vien

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