Did You Know?

Saskatchewan is proudly known today as the Breadbasket of Canada, but that reputation was far from certain in the province’s early history. In the mid-1800s, much of southern Saskatchewan was dismissed as unsuitable for agriculture by British explorer John Palliser. Having surveyed the area, he concluded the land as too dry and arid for crops. His assessment gave rise to the name Palliser’s Triangle, a region believed to be “forever comparatively useless” for farming. 

History, however, tells a very different story. 

The transformation of Palliser’s Triangle into one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world was driven by the same three principles that define Canada’s Farm Show Regina, SK, presented by Bunge today: innovation, collaboration, and education. 

Innovation played a critical role as farmers adapted to Prairie conditions. Early advancements such as John Deere’s steel plow allowed producers to work tough soils more efficiently. Over time, horses gave way to tractors, threshing machines improved harvesting efficiency, and later combines and trucks transformed how crops were grown and moved. These innovations reduced labour demands while increasing productivity, allowing Saskatchewan agriculture to grow and evolve. 

Collaboration was equally important. Farmers, researchers, and governments worked together to test new methods and respond to challenges. Experimental farms in Indian Head and Rosthern became hubs for practical research, while shared knowledge helped producers improve yields and sustainability across the Prairies. 

Education ensured that innovation and collaboration reached the farm gate. Initiatives were designed to bring agricultural knowledge directly to farmers. In the early 20th century William Motherwell of the Saskatchewan Department of Agriculture developed the “Better Farming Train.” Motherwell, a firm believer in scientific agriculture, created the train consisting of 13 to 17 cars with exhibits and equipment for demonstrations and lectures covering livestock, field husbandry, household science, farm mechanics, and more. 

The importance of education, collaboration, and innovation became especially clear during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s. Severe drought and soil erosion devastated much of Palliser’s Triangle, exposing the risks of poor land management. In response, conservation practices such as crop rotation, windbreaks, and cover crops were widely adopted. The establishment of the Prairie Farm Rehabilitation Administration in 1935 further advanced soil conservation through research, education, and community-based solutions. 

Today, Palliser’s Triangle produces world-class wheat, canola, pulses, and specialty crops that feed global markets. What was once doubted has become essential—proof that progress in agriculture depends on innovation, collaboration, and education working together. 

That same spirit is celebrated each year at Canada’s Farm Show Regina. For more than 40 years, CFS has brought producers, innovators, researchers, and ag leaders together to share ideas, showcase technology, and continue shaping the future of agriculture in Saskatchewan and beyond. 

Experience the innovation, collaboration, and education that continue to define Saskatchewan agriculture. Join us at Canada’s Farm Show Regina, SK, and be part of the conversations, connections, and ideas driving the future of farming. 

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