The Financial Post reports in its Saturday edition that since the mining of potash began on the Prairies 65 years ago, the mineral has grown more important as countries around the world try to feed their growing populations. The Post's Michael Joel-Hansen writes that the industry was not always so consistent. "In my first 15 years, it was four years of layoffs off and on, not constant and never a complete out-the-door shutdown, but downsizing and cutting back," said Bob Boehm, who has been working at Nutrien's Allan mine, southeast of Saskatoon, for more than 40 years. However, he said the improving market for potash has led to more stability for the industry and those working in it. He has also observed a number of changes in the mine's day-to-day operations. One of the big changes, Mr. Boehm said, was that during the early years of his career, potash mining was a physically demanding job. Today, that's not the case so much, and the change has allowed him to continue his career. Saskatchewan is home to all 10 of Canada's producing potash mines. Six of these mines are owned by Nutrien. The industry in 2022, the most recent year data is available, directly employed 5,800 people who collectively earned $900-million.