AS AN AGRI-ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS OFFICER, AARON ASSISTS SOIL AND WATER CONSERVATION ENGINEERS WITH THE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT OF SOIL CONSERVATION PLANS.
Aaron Jackson doesn’t come from a farming background, but after being hired by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada while studying at Holland College, he developed a strong interest in enhancing agricultural practices and reducing environmental impact.
In his role, he prepares topographic maps of agricultural fields using drone technology and various surveying methods to create an accurate snapshot of agricultural fields. These are then used to develop soil conversation plans for the agriculture community.
Aaron oversees the construction of these plans in the field.
He also manages the Geographic Information System for the department and a weather station network across PEI that is used to determine Fire Weather Index and assist with agricultural insurance claims.
Aaron is excited about the future of soil health in PEI.
Over the last several years he's seen an increase in soil building crops into rotations that will help improve soil health, soil organic carbon, and improve yields for Island producers. He says the benefits of these practices are becoming more and more clear, with improved soil health and yields.
Aaron is passionate about leveraging his unique skillset to assist his colleagues, clients, and the agricultural industry to utilize best practices, better protect the environment, and promote sustainable farming.
“I think the importance of having healthy soil is coming to the forefront every day, and people are working hard to ensure we are able to sustain healthy agricultural land into the future.”
