Round-Up

Jun 18, 2024

Drawing Insight: a day for convergence about H20

Water is one of the most important components for sustaining our farms, our communities, and our economy.

This year's Round-Up was all about water: Managing when there is too little or too much, maintaining its quality, and successfully securing and protecting water supplies for the short and long term.

RDAR's 2024 Round-Up was a one-day special event for everyone interested in how Alberta manages its water resources, especially how water affects the agricultural sector.

Participants heard from peers — producers, researchers, policy-makers and processors — about how to manage production and processing practices in varying conditions. Researchers heard producers' challenges while sharing their expertise. Industry leaders shared their insights on broader water issues and how policy and investments may affect business practices.

Dr. John Pomeroy

Dr. John Pomeroy is Director of the Global Water Futures Program – the largest university-led freshwater research project in the world. At the University of Saskatchewan, he is the Canada Research Chair in Water Resources and Climate Change, Distinguished Professor of Geography, Director of the Centre for Hydrology, Director of the Coldwater Laboratory, Canmore, Alberta, and Associate Director of the Global Institute for Water Security.

His current research interests are on the impact of land use and climate change on cold regions hydrology and water quality, and improved prediction of climate change impacts, especially floods and droughts.

He has developed several hydrological models and a network of hydrological research basins. Dr. Pomeroy has authored over 400 research articles and reports and several books that have been cited over 25,000 times!

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Video: Why Seed Analysts are Thriving Under Seeds Canada

Last month in Edmonton, Alta., industry leaders and stakeholders gathered to discuss the evolving landscape of the seed industry at Seeds Canada’s annual conference. Among them was Sarah Foster, president of 2020 Seed Labs and the new vice-president of Seeds Canada.

Foster, who has been on the board of Seeds Canada for over a year, has witnessed firsthand the challenges and opportunities that come with the formation of the organization. Seeds Canada was established just over three years ago through the merger of multiple seed industry groups, including the Commercial Seed Analysts Association of Canada (CSAAC). Since then, the organization has been working to define its priorities and solidify its role in the industry.

“The challenge has been allowing the dust to settle after the merger,” Foster explained. “We’ve been focused on identifying what our priorities should be and ensuring that our members, especially the seed analysts, are getting what they need to continue their professional work.”

One of the recent highlights was a pre-conference event where the three major seed labs in Alberta — 20/20 Seed Labs, SGS Canada and Seed Check — opened their doors to members. The event saw a record number of seed analysts and business professionals in attendance. Foster emphasized the importance of this transparency, stating, “It’s crucial for people to see what goes on behind the scenes. We’re an open book now, and that openness helps build trust and understanding within the industry.”

The event also featured an environmental scan and a series of discussions that fostered strong communication among attendees. According to Foster, the dialogue was both encouraging and inspiring.

“A lot of people were really inspired by the fact that Seeds Canada is moving ahead with its agenda. The seed analysts, who have always worked diligently in the background, are now being recognized more prominently,” she said.

Before the merger, seed analysts were represented by CSAAC. Now, as part of Seeds Canada, they are finding their place within the larger organization. Foster believes that the integration has been successful, noting, “I think we’re thriving. You only need to look south of the border, where similar consolidations are happening.”

As Seeds Canada continues to evolve, Foster remains optimistic about the future. “I want to be totally transparent with anyone who is a seed analyst — I’ve got your back. We’re moving in a positive direction, and we’ll do everything we can to meet the needs of our members,” she said.