YELLOWKNIFE (May 15, 2015) – The Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) is inviting residents to talk about ways to grow the NWT’s agriculture sector.

A series of information-gathering sessions are being held in regional centres to help guide the development of an agriculture strategy for the NWT and to ensure it reflects the priorities of NWT residents and creates the economic opportunities this growing sector can provide for them.

“From small community gardens to commercial greenhouses and regulated egg production, our residents have shown us they are interested in participating in agriculture,” says Minister of Industry, Tourism and Investment David Ramsay. “We want to support their vision with informed government actions and policy that will advance the increased production of fresh, healthy and more affordable locally-grown food choices.”

The need for an agriculture strategy was highlighted in the NWT Economic Opportunities Strategy released in 2013.

Motivated by high food costs, positive contributions to lifestyles, product diversity and increased awareness of nutritional values, participation in local food production is increasing in almost all NWT communities.

For more information, visit www.iti.gov.nt.ca/agriculture

Media inquiries:

Drew Williams
Manager, Public Affairs and Communications
Industry, Tourism and Investment
Government of the Northwest Territories
Tel: (867) 920-8696
Email: drew_williams@gov.nt.ca