The pulse industry is celebrating the achievements of trailblazer Vicki Dutton, a farmer from Paynton, Sask., who has been awarded the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (SPG) Pulse Promoter Award. Recognized for her transformative contributions to the pulse sector and her enduring commitment to innovation and advocacy, Dutton has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s success.
Dutton Farms, operated by Dutton and her family, was among the first in Western Canada to incorporate pulse crops into its rotation in the 1970s. Since 1974, she has been a long-time seed grower through Dutton Farms Partnership, specializing in producing high-quality pulse seeds, cementing her reputation as a trusted partner in the pulse value chain. Her leadership extended to her role as an owner of Western Grain, a processor and exporter that has driven market development and fostered grain trade connections globally.
Dutton’s influence includes six years of service on the SPG Board of Directors, during which helped guide the organization’s research and market development. She also served on the Pulse Canada Board and the Western Standards Committee for the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC).
“Vicki Dutton’s contributions to the pulse industry are extensive,” said Winston van Staveren, SPG Board Chair. “Her pioneering spirit, innovative approach, and dedication to collaboration have built her legacy in Canadian agriculture.”
Today, Dutton Farms champions innovation through partnerships, for example, with Protein Industries Canada, Lovingly Made Flour Mills, and TMRW Foods. Dutton Farms exemplifies the critical role of pulses in sustainable food solutions by focusing on advancing pea and faba bean protein in this collaborative project for new meat alternative products.
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