Herbert Sparrow has made lasting contributions to farming in Canada and to his hometown of North Battleford. A senator for 37 years, he was responsible for the publication of Soil at Risk: Canada's Eroding Future. This highly influential report led to significant changes in farming practices in Canada and abroad, and serves as a model for sustainable agriculture. A farmer and businessman, he is also actively involved in his community, and has undertaken numerous projects aimed at battling hunger and poverty, and helping persons with disabilities. Among his many initiatives, he founded a school for children with special needs, as well as a successful school lunch program, helping to ensure the well-being of youth in his community.