Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Heath MacDonald announces the National Agricultural Soil Health Strategy as MP Dominique O'Rourke, SCCC director Allan Kruzel and Senator Rob Black look on. (Image Credit: X/@CornwallHeath)

By Alice McFarlane

Healthy soils

Collaboration on a soil health strategy

Mar 27, 2026 | 3:39 PM

The federal government and the Soil Conservation Council of Canada (SCCC) are creating a National Agricultural Soil Health Strategy.  

AAFC will collaborate with SCCC to establish a committee structure and advisory working groups to guide its development and provide an opportunity for expert input across key areas, including research, extension, data, and incentives. 

Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald joined Senator Rob Black and SCCC representatives to announce the development of the strategy on Parliament Hill yesterday. 

MacDonald said healthy soils are the foundation of a strong and sustainable agriculture sector.  

“Building on the important work already underway, including Senator Black’s efforts in this area, the Government of Canada will continue working with partners across Canada, such as the Soil Conservation Council of Canada, to collaborate on the development of the National Agricultural Soil Health Strategy and protect this essential resource,” MacDonald said. 

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The Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry published a report titled Critical Ground: Why Soil is Essential to Canada’s Economic, Environmental, Human, and Social Health in June 2024.  

The report led to the development of Bill S‑230, An Act respecting the development of a national strategy for soil health protection, conservation and enhancement, which calls for the development of a national strategy to protect, conserve, and enhance soil health in Canada. 

The strategy is being developed with partners across the sector, reflecting soil as a critical national asset that underpins the livelihood of Canadian farmers, national food security and environmental outcomes. 

The significant work already underway by the SCCC and industry partners was recognized as having created strong momentum, which will be leveraged to inform and accelerate the development of the strategy. 

Senator Rob Black said the launch of the strategy is an important step for Canada’s agriculture sector and long-term sustainability.  

“Healthy soils are the foundation of a resilient agri-food system, and this collaborative approach will help protect and enhance this vital resource. I’m proud to see the momentum from our Senate study and Bill S-230 reflected in this work, and I look forward to the benefits for producers and future generations.” 

Farmer and SCCC director Alan Kruzel said his organization appreciates the commitment from government to address agricultural soil health challenges in Canada.   

Our collective goal through this industry-government collaboration is to support farmers and ranchers who are the stewards of this valuable natural resource,” Kruzel added. 

The working group will meet regularly with the provinces and territories, Indigenous agricultural groups, producer organizations, academia and industry beginning this spring. 

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com