The UPA is a professional farmers' union. Its purpose and actions are based on certain values: respect for people, solidarity, collective action, social justice, fairness, and democracy.In keeping with these values, the UPA's chief mission is to promote, defend, and further the professional, economic, social, and moral interests of Quebec's farm and forestry producers, regardless of race, nationality, sex, language, or belief system.By staying in tune with Quebec society as a whole, the UPA also helps improve social, economic, and cultural life in rural communities.Finally, the UPA recognizes that Quebec farming and forestry exist in a context of global connectivity, and may therefore support other farming and forestry groups in Canada and abroad through collective action.The UPA represents roughly 42,000 Quebec farmers as well as all forestry producers in the province.With 92 locals, 12 regional federations, its 159 unions, and 26 specialized groups, the UPA is the only official body that speaks on behalf of all Quebec farm and forestry producers. The UPA unites farmers in two ways: based on where they live ("general sector") and what they produce ("specialized sector").