Initial Exploration of Canola Producers' Approaches in Response to Changing Climate in the Canadian Prairie Provinces

Alberta, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan, the Prairie Provinces of Canada, lead national oilseed cultivation. Canola is a staple crop that provides food oil and feedstock for biofuels. Canola production is vulnerable to climate variability, and climate change has altered crop cycles and affected Canadian canola producers. This study aims to generate an initial understanding of canola producers' perceptions of climate change, their current adaptation strategies, and drivers and barriers to implementing new adaptation strategies in the Canadian Prairies. Besides, identifying the public policy needs to improve the canola production sector. Data were collected through an online survey and key informant interviews. Most participants identified changes in climate and frequency of extreme events. They identified a higher occurrence of heat waves and wind gusts and had to adapt to a higher presence of pests and diseases. Despite climate variability, canola productivity has improved in the last ten years, attributed to better technology and management of inputs. Genetic improvement is seen as a crucial part of canola's resistance to biotic and abiotic events. Most participant producers make independent decisions regarding adaptation and best practices at the field level. There is a vast and diverse outreach from researchers and specialists that producers are able to use in decision-making around implementing new or improved technologies. Participants recommended new and enhanced public policies to regulate the canola industry and seed market, technologies and data use, fossil fuel use, land and water management, and crop nutrition. These initial understandings point to ways in which regulatory bodies and specialists can continue to support producers to mitigate negative impacts of a changing climate and inform shareholders and policymakers of current needs and expectations.