Technology entrepreneurs called upon to help producers

By Ronald Quaroni

Innovation Saskatchewan and the Ministry of Agriculture are asking how technology can help Saskatchewan producers monitor their mental health.

The government is launching a new challenge to entrepreneurs in the tech sector who can brainstorm solutions to deal with problems farmers deal with.

“There’s a lot you can’t control on a farming operation and you’re usually working in an isolated environment — both can take a toll on the mental health of farmers and ranchers,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said in a media release.

“This year’s Innovation Challenge is another way the Government of Saskatchewan can support its producers and agribusinesses. Mental health in the agriculture industry is incredibly important, and I’m looking forward to seeing the innovative ideas that come from this process.”

Todd Lewis, the president of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan (APAS), said any resource to help farmers is welcome.

“I think this is good news and very welcome that the province has put some money towards it,” Lewis said.

“Producers have to be able to speak freely when they have an issue and the quicker it can be nipped in the bud, the better. There’s lots of help out there and if this (challenge) helps open the lines of communication, it will only be helpful for producers.”

While farming is a naturally stressful occupation, Lewis noted weather difficulties, market access, rail blockades and the COVID-19 outbreak are making this spring particularly stressful.

“All these things add up and sometimes it feels overwhelming. You throw two (thousand) or three thousand acres of crop laying out in the field in the snow that you have to get (harvested) before spring seeding gets underway, it’s a difficult time for a lot of producers in the province,” Lewis noted.

Lewis added the more producers become attuned to technology and reliant on cellphones in their farming businesses, it only makes sense to make mental help available through that same technology.

The Innovation Challenge began Thursday. It’s asking for Saskatchewan-based companies and entrepreneurs to come up with ideas for mobile phone apps, website programs, artificial intelligence interfaces and any other ideas.

Winners will receive $10,000 in funding and a 16-week collaboration with government to develop their concept.

The deadline for submissions is April 30. Further information can be found on Innovation Saskatchewan’s website.