Farming, Food and Central Plains

Central Plains has a rich heritage and economic partnership with the production and processing of food. Whatever your method of transportation through the region, you will recognize the importance of agriculture.

By car, you may first notice some sample plots just west of Winnipeg with some flags. This is a great display of the many grain varieties grown in Manitoba and the countries that buy them. As you travel along the Trans-Canada Highway, you might hear: "Dad, what is all that yellow stuff?" Identifying crops as you travel is tricky, but for part of your drive, crop identification signs will help answer questions from your passengers.

Don't forget to keep you eyes peeled for the many kinds of livestock that are raised - dairy and beef cattle, poultry, turkey, hogs, and yes, we really do have buffalo in Manitoba!

By train you will pass by our "Prairie Sentinels" - the grain elevators. The older, painted wooden structures are being replaced with poured concrete structures utilizing the most sophisticated technology to receive, store, grade and ship grain to customers across Canada and the world. If you are waiting for a train at a crossroad, a popular children's pastime is to count the number of grain cars. Some trains have over 100!

By air you may see other signs of the food processing industry. Can you pick out the fields where irrigation systems water the potatoes grown for french-fry processing?

The Central Plains area offers much to see and hear about farming and food - but don't forget to enjoy the great taste, as well.

Central Plains farms offer excitement

When was the last time you had a vacation on a farm? Central Plains has many farm owners who have exciting things to offer anyone of any age on their farm. Learn to milk a cow, pick some berries or enjoy the relaxing experience of a bed and breakfast when you need a place to stay. If you are looking for something to do for a day or a week - you will find it on a Country Road.