Most Canadian farmers less optimistic about their futures than two years ago
2005-04-27
Almost one-quarter of Canadian farmers unlikely to still be active in farming five years from now
VANCOUVER, BC – A recent survey conducted by Sensus Research on the Canadian agricultural industry revealed that 23% of farmers think that it is unlikely or very unlikely that they will still be active in farming five years from now. Over 14% say it is very unlikely that they will be. This is up over 7% since the survey was last conducted in 2003.
Overall, most Canadian farmers feel somewhat less optimistic about their future than they were two years ago. Just 80% feel strongly that they will be active next year, down slightly from 85% just two years ago. The greatest challenges may be in store for Saskatchewan farmers, where just 77% feel strongly that they will be operating in 2006. Looking five years ahead, even fewer expect to be active, with Saskatchewan and Alberta being the provinces most affected.
The findings are part of study called the 2005 Survey of Agriculture, which was conducted for The Western Producer magazine, the most-read farming publication in Western Canada. Sensus Research conducted the telephone survey of 805 active farmers and ranchers in Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba from February 26th to March 1st 2005. Results are considered accurate to within plus/minus 3.5 percent, 19 times out of 20.
“This is obviously not a good omen for the industry,” said The Western Producer executive Glenn Caleval. “With so many difficult setbacks in recent years, like as Mad Cow Disease, export bans, and reduced subsidies, it is no surprise that many farmers are finding it tough to survive.”
About Sensus
Sensus Research Inc. is one of the largest privately owned and operated Canadian marketing research firms. Through offices in Abbotsford and Vancouver, Canada, Sensus provides local, national and international clients with smart, customized, leading-edge marketing research solutions. Founded in 1989, Sensus' focus is to provide clients knowledge in three key spheres of their businesses: Know your Market, Know Your Customer, Know Your Brand.
For further information, please contact:
Rob Dawson, President
Vancouver
(604) 642-5908
Peter Reek, Vice-President
Abbotsford
(604) 864-0069
