One of our local farmers sent me this sad video sharing the facts about alarmingly high rates of suicide among farmers and ranchers.
The study by researchers out of Iowa indicated that rates in the agriculture occupations were 3.5x higher than the general population. The average debt for farmers and ranchers is $1.3 million (locally it is not as high on average, however few of our local farmers are able to own land). Farm and ranch households comprise less than 2% of the population (that number is on par for BC). The average salary is less than $40,000 (this number is MUCH less, closer to nothing for farmers in our region in the current climate). Expenditures far exceed revenues. Bankruptcy is a real, pertinent issue and that is true across our region. Most farmers also have “jobs”.
On behalf of our community I just want to say thank you to everybody who is out and about helping and supporting local farmers and growers! Whether you’re bringing high morale and energy to farm and garden party days or you’re showing up at the farmers market and just give a smile or you’re purchasing the products, you are contributing not only to food security but also to the mental health of all
The last market of the year in 100 Mile was a success with the grapes being a smash hit, and people enjoying having a market that isn’t a dust bowl parking lot.
Former Market Manager Amanda Patterson is running for 100 Mile District Council in the October Election.