Michael Nantais’s journey into the world of sustainable farming began unexpectedly during the pandemic. The now 26-year-old was inspired by a Netflix documentary that ignited his passion for agriculture, prompting him to experiment with growing kale, cucumbers, and zucchinis in his mother’s backyard in Pointe-Claire, just outside Montreal. “I didn’t really know much at that time,” he admitted, reflecting on those early days when he relied on seedlings and basic gardening techniques. This initial foray set the stage for a significant shift in his career path. Nantais transitioned from an economics degree to a biology program, driven by a desire to deepen his understanding of plants and farming practices.
His education took him through various experiences, including work in a plant soil lab and later at a vertical farm in Montreal. Vertical farming, which involves stacking crops in layers within controlled indoor environments, is gaining traction, particularly in urban settings. “Was my mind set on vertical farming when I switched to biology? The answer is no,” Nantais recalled. “I was open-minded … I just wanted to learn.” This flexibility reflects a broader trend among younger Canadians entering the agricultural sector. Traditionally, agriculture students hailed from rural backgrounds and planned to inherit family farms. However, as Jay Steeves, dean of the Werklund School of Agriculture & Technology at Olds College in Alberta, notes, an increasing number of students from urban areas are now pursuing agricultural studies, exploring innovative niches such as indoor agriculture.
This shift is not merely academic; it’s reshaping the agricultural landscape. Steeves shared an example of a student who successfully grew lettuce in a dorm room, controlling environmental factors remotely. Such innovations highlight how technology is enabling aspiring farmers to engage in agriculture without the need for large tracts of land or heavy machinery. Craig Klemmer, principal economist at Farm Credit Canada, emphasized that the changing demographics in Canada are creating new market opportunities. For instance, the rising demand for sheep and goat meat allows for small-scale operations that can be gradually expanded. Similarly, niche areas like herb cultivation and sustainable farming require less initial investment, making them accessible to newcomers.
Nantais moved to Toronto to establish his own vertical farm, initially with plans for an independent venture. However, he faced challenges in securing an appropriate rental space. Instead, he opted to partner with Living Earth Farm, an existing vertical farm that grows a variety of microgreens. “Hopefully, we can expand, increase our supply and start selling more of it,” Nantais said of his collaborative approach. His experience underscores the realities faced by young entrepreneurs in agriculture, particularly as the cost of farmland has surged dramatically over the years. In southern Ontario, for example, the average price of farmland has skyrocketed from $2,616 per hectare in 1996 to approximately $23,100 in 2023, creating significant barriers for entry into traditional farming.
As the agricultural landscape evolves, many graduates are pivoting to roles in crop science and consulting for larger producers, focusing on efficiency and sustainability rather than ownership of farms. Steeves pointed out that modern agricultural work increasingly involves tasks like drone assessments and soil testing, which appeal to those who want to contribute to the food system without owning land. Despite the rising interest in farming and a growing culture of home gardening, the sector faces a labor shortage. With a significant proportion of Canadian farmers nearing retirement, the number of young farmers continues to decline. Statistics Canada reported that as of 2021, only 8.6 percent of farmers were under 35, down from 11.5 percent in 2001.
The implications of these trends are profound. As the agricultural sector grapples with an aging workforce and rising land costs, there is a pressing need for new entrants who can bring innovative ideas and technologies to the table. Steeves believes that everyone has a role to play in agriculture, regardless of their background. “We’re still trying to get rid of that myth that you have to come from this background in order to be involved,” he said, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in the industry. As Nantais and others like him navigate these challenges, their stories reflect a transformative moment in agriculture, where sustainability and innovation are becoming essential components of the future food system.
