Manitoba (Rural Roots Canada) – New data released this week by the Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA) confirms agriculture is one of the biggest economic drivers in the province.

The study, conducted by information services company GlobalData, assessed the impact of Manitoba-grown wheat (excluding durum), barley, grain corn, sunflower, and flax on the province’s economy.

Those five major crops averaged roughly $6.9 billion over the past three years, including more than 28,000 Manitoba jobs and $2.5 billion in wages.

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In a statement, chair Robert Misko says the study shows the major role crop types play in the economic well-being of the province and the country.

“As farmers, we have long known our position in the system and how we contribute to the province’s success, but it is heartening to see those contributions laid out in a measurable way that anyone can understand,” says the farmer from Roblin.

The full study can be found by clicking here.

This economic assessment comes on the heels of one carried out by Cereals Canada on wheat, barley, durum and oats last year, which served as a model for this one.