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- calendar_today October 15, 2026
Saskatchewan Seeks Public Input on Farmland Security Act
The Saskatchewan government has initiated a public consultation as part of a review of the province’s Farmland Security Act. This legislation addresses issues such as farmland ownership, foreclosures, and regulatory enforcement. The review comes at a time when concentration of farmland ownership is increasing, sparking concerns among local agricultural producers and younger generations interested in continuing family farming operations.
Growing Concerns Over Farmland Ownership
The review of the Farmland Security Act is being conducted amidst heightened attention on who owns Saskatchewan’s farmland. There has been a notable rise in land concentration, with more properties being held by fewer entities. Additionally, younger farmers are voicing concerns about maintaining family businesses amid speculation about rising interest from foreign buyers.
Enforcement and Regulatory Issues Raised
Enforcement of the Act’s regulations has also come under scrutiny. Bill Prybylski, president of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan, highlighted ongoing concerns around how transactions are monitored and approved. “It’s the enforcement of those regulations that is somewhat concerning and we’ve seen evidence where transactions aren’t being looked at until months after the approval of the transaction and the land has already been transferred,” Prybylski said, referring to delayed review of farmland sales and transfers.
Key Topics in the Consultation
As part of the consultation process, the government is circulating an online questionnaire that invites feedback on central aspects of the Act. Topics under discussion include:
- Foreign ownership of farmland
- Enforcement of current regulations
- Applicable fees related to farmland transactions
- Protections for established and new farmers
The feedback may inform changes to the legislation based on the public’s and agricultural producers' responses.
Potential Impacts of the Review
The outcome of the public consultation could influence future changes to the Farmland Security Act. The review process is seen as an opportunity to address concerns around land concentration, foreign buyers’ influence, and the mechanics of land transfer and enforcement in the province. The government has announced that feedback submitted through the questionnaire will help shape possible amendments and improvements to the Act.
Participation in the Farmland Security Act Consultation
Public participation is encouraged, especially from those with direct interests in farmland ownership, agricultural production, and land transfer processes in Saskatchewan. Respondents are asked to share their experiences and views through the province’s online platform, ensuring a comprehensive review that considers a wide range of perspectives on farmland security, farmers protection, and enforcement concerns.
Source: globalnews.ca.
