Spudman March 2023

McCain’s sustainable road map to Regenerative agriculture

2 minute read

How an ecosystem-based approach can positively impact generations of farmers

(Sponsored) Putting agronomy and sustainability first to ensure healthier soils while leading to more sustainably sourced food is at the heart of McCain’s purpose as a business. As a global leader in prepared food products, McCain has the opportunity to introduce smart, sustainable farming methods like Regenerative agriculture.

Regenerative agriculture is an ecosystem-based approach to farming, aiming to improve farmer resilience, quality and yield. Through this approach, McCain can improve soil health, enhance biodiversity and reduce the impact of synthetic inputs.

McCain continues to build farmer resilience by working directly with 3,500 farmers and providing them with technical and financial support to implement and develop Regenerative agriculture techniques.

McCain’s Smart and Sustainable Commitments

Improving water use efficiency by 15% in water-stressed regions by 2025.
Implementing Regenerative agriculture practices on 100% of McCain’s potato acreage by 2030.
Providing proper training, knowledge and technology to participating farmers.
Developing research partnerships and leveraging collective action to advance Regenerative agriculture.
Reducing CO2 per tonne from potato farming, storage and freight by 25% by 2030.

Potato growers often face increasing challenges like rising input costs, climate change and regulatory uncertainty. McCain is combating these challenges and threats to the industry by re-imagining how to grow potatoes. With a commitment to implementing Regenerative agriculture practices worldwide by 2030, McCain believes the answer is in the soil

“We’re really keen to prove that Regenerative agriculture can have a great impact on soil, water management, biodiversity and be economically sustainable,” Max Koene, President and CEO of McCain said.

Farm Manager at Reynold Agribusiness LLC in Moses Lake, Washington, Brett Reynolds explained the key to Regenerative agriculture within his farm and his own practices.

“The key to Regenerative and sustainable farming is a combination of organic and conventional practices while employing innovative technology, culture and, ultimately, gaining high efficiency,” Reynolds said.

Through the use of Regenerative agriculture techniques and with the help of McCain, Reynolds has seen an improvement in quality and overall yields within his crops.

“Since implementing Regenerative practices in our farm we have seen an increase in potato quality and yield quality,” Reynolds said. “Because we maintain efficiency, we are able to use less product all while utilizing complex nutrition, particularly with carbon.”

Reynolds recommends growers take the time to learn proper Regenerative practices and have the right timing in order to succeed.

“When you’re using reduced rates in high-efficiency products, you need to have your timing right. You do not want to be behind,” Reynolds said. “Make sure you learn your products and the differences between them. Having the right knowledge will lead you to success.”

Reynolds believes Regenerative agriculture techniques can positively impact generations of farmers.

“Because of Regenerative agriculture, we can look at improving our soil health as we apply fertilizers. With increasing positive results, these techniques can leave future generations in a better position on the farm,” Reynolds said.

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