The Manitoba Farm Writers and Broadcasters’ Association (MFWBA) has presented its inaugural Agricultural Awareness Award to Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba, recognizing its effective “hands-on” approach to educating children about farming and food.
The award was created to acknowledge outstanding contributions to public awareness of agricultural issues in Manitoba. It is given annually to an individual or organization and includes a $300 cash prize.
This year’s judges were Marilyn Maki, host of CBC Radio Noon; Gord Gilmour, associate editor of Country Guide magazine; and Diane Wreford, director of communications and development for the Canadian Agricultural Safety Association. The judges said they chose Agriculture in the Classroom because the program targets an audience that might not otherwise have an opportunity to learn about farming.
“This is a terrific, hands-on approach to local food products which combines local volunteer involvement, industry sponsorship and interaction with students,” one judge wrote. “The ‘Made-in-Manitoba’ breakfast is a great idea. I scored this one higher because it shows excellent integration of industry and community. Plus, I firmly believe the shortest route to a kid’s mind is through the stomach!”
Agriculture in the Classroom Manitoba is a non-profit organization supported by individuals and the agricultural industry. Its mandate is to heighten awareness in Manitoba schools of the importance of agriculture. The organization runs several programs throughout the year, including “The Amazing Agriculture Adventure”, “Made-in-Manitoba Breakfast”, farm tours and other educational initiatives, including developing teaching curriculum resources.
“It is the collaborative efforts with partners across the industry that makes this so successful,” said Johanne Ross, executive director of the program.
MFWBA president Crystal Jorgenson said the program is a worthy recipient of the first annual award.
“Agriculture in the Classroom perfectly reflects the objectives of our award – which is to make everyone understand how agriculture relates to all aspects of our lives: food, health, fuel and the environment.”
Nominations for the 2010 award are now being accepted. Entries are welcomed from journalists, communications professionals, entrepreneurs, producers and anyone else working to make a difference in agriculture. Details and nomination forms can be found at www.mfwba.ca.
The MFWBA brings together farm journalists and communicators to learn about and debate all aspects of Manitoba agriculture. The association hosts guest speakers, discussions on agricultural issues and professional development events. The MFWBA’s more than 60 members are also affiliated with the Canadian Farm Writers Federation and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists.
