Potash for Food Security – Saskatchewan

Saskatoon,Saskatchewan,Canada- July 22,2018: Potash plant outside of Saskatoon Sask. Agriculture in foreground. Potash Mineral on left with transport trains. Dramatic cloud sky.
Without potash there is no agriculture. The US produces very little potash, accounting for less than 10% of its need, and instead imports the vast majority from Canada.
Potash is essential for grass yield, nutrient uptake, photosynthesis, and overall plant health.
Potash is crucial for agriculture since it improves yield, disease resistance, texture, color, nutrient value, and taste of the food. The soil nutrients must be replenished every year; therefore, potash is usually be added in potassium deficient soil.
- Potash in Canada
- Potash production in Canada began as early as 1767. By then the commodity was made from wood ash. Natural potash was discovered in Saskatchewan, Canada in 1943. Active mining began in 1951. In 1958, professional excavation was started by Potash Company of America. The company established an underground mine near Patience Lake. The reserves in Saskatchewan are the biggest in the world. The Mosaic Company is the main miner. In 2017, Canada alone produced 12 million tonnes of potash. (Canadian Encyclopedia)
Canada could cut off the US potash supply. Americans would go hungry. Potash is a bargaining chip, but it is a nasty one.