CEO Commentary: New beginnings

Sep 27, 2024

CEO Commentary by Kelly Somerville

This fall is ushering in some big changes for me and LRIC alike. As I step into the role of CEO of this organization, I am invigorated by the tremendous work LRIC has undertaken and the excitement of projects to come.

In my previous position as Industry Services Manager, I had the opportunity to work closely with Mike McMorris, our outgoing CEO who has just retired, and am so humbled at the prospect of continuing the great work already underway.

The coming months promise to be busy as LRIC prepares to host our International Research Advisory Committee for a two- day in person event September 25-26th. The role of this committee, which includes members from across Canada and internationally, is to bring international perspectives, ideas and practices to the Ontario livestock sector. At this upcoming meeting, the committee will work on developing a strategy for maximizing value from Ontario’s world class livestock research facilities.

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Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.