Diversifying Crop Rotations

“We are approaching crop rotation by looking at a systems approach – all the elements that impact crop rotation from soil health, economics and yield to local growing conditions,” say Liu. “It’s a more holistic way to look at crop rotation and one we hope will provide new insights and options for farmers in Western Canada in a more customized, prescriptive type of approach.”

The team is evaluating six different crop rotations at seven field sites across the prairies to provide relevant recommendations based on local growing conditions. There are three sites in Alberta, three in Saskatchewan and one in Manitoba. Data from the four-year rotations have been evaluated by region based on yield, economics and efficient use of both precipitation and nutrients.

“We have produced twelve factsheets with regional results on how each of the six rotations performed based on the evaluation criteria,” says Sheri Strydhorst, Principal, Sheri’s Ag Consulting Inc. who helps manage communications and extension for the Resilient Rotations project. “We would also encourage growers

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Pat “Duke” Bueckert 306-291-9675

Alvin Busby 306-227-0575

Alan Jackson 306-961-5682

Aiden Zwack 306-961-5198

Spencer Fox 306-361-9701

Lyal Fox 780-808-9731

(cull cows & bulls)

Deryl Miller (Owner) 306-221-2106 and agronomists to complete our survey to help us better understand what would encourage the adoption of more diverse crop rotations. The survey can be accessed here.”

The factsheets can be found here wgrf.ca/resilient-rotations-factsheet/.

“There are agronomists, weed scientists, pathologists, economists and soil health experts involved in this project,” says Wayne Thompson, WGRF Executive Director. “A testament to the diversity of factors that impact an effective, sustainable and productive approach to crop rotation. WGRF invests in research like the Resilient Rotations project with the goal to help farmers make decisions that are the best fit for their operation.”

The Resilient Rotations project is supported by funding from WGRF, Alberta Wheat, Sask Wheat, Alberta Pulse Growers, SaskCanola, Manitoba Crop Alliance, and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership – a provincial-federal-territorial initiative.

Grain Growers of Canada welcomes interim leadership as executive director departs for new role

April 18, 2023 (Ottawa, ON) – The Grain Growers of Canada (GGC) bids farewell to Erin Gowriluk, its executive director, as she moves on to become the president of the Canada Grain Council. Tyler Bjornson & Associates will provide interim leadership effective April 17 while the organization searches for a new executive director.

During her five-year tenure, Gowriluk has been a leading voice on critical issues facing Canadian grain farmers.

"It has been an absolute privilege to work alongside such passionate and dedicated individuals who have an unwavering commitment to advancing the interests of Canadian grain farmers,” she said.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to the GGC board of directors, staff and members for their steadfast support throughout my tenure. I look forward to following their progress and seeing the organization reach new heights."

GGC chair Andre Harpe thanked Gowriluk for her dedicated service to the organization.

DARWIN’S LEATHERWORK

"Erin has been a tireless advocate for Canadian grain farmers, and her leadership has been instrumental in advancing the interests of our members,” he said. “We wish her all the best in her new role."

Harpe also expressed his confidence in Bjornson's ability to ensure a seamless transition.

"Tyler and his team have a proven track record of providing strong leadership during transition periods, and we are confident in their ability to continue advancing the interests of our members,” he said.

GGC has established a hiring committee to lead the process of finding a new Executive Director, which includes the GGC executive and two additional directors. A job posting and call for interested applications will be published on the GGC website and other social media in the coming days.

GGC is committed to supporting Canadian grain farmers and looks forward to continuing its work on their behalf.