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Time is running out to register for the Alberta-British Columbia Seed Growers’ 97th Annual General Meeting
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The Alberta–British Columbia Seed Growers’ 97th Annual General Meeting will take place February 4–5, 2026, at the Deerfoot Inn & Casino in Calgary, Alberta.
The ABCSG Room Block has expired, but there may still be rooms available. If interested, contact:
Deerfoot Inn & Casino
1000, 11500 35 Street S.E.
Calgary, Alberta, T2Z 3W4
Hotel Direct: 403-236-7529
Toll Free: 1-888-875-4667
Email: reservations@dfic.ca
The meeting agenda, registration details, and accommodation information are available at: https://abcseedgrowers.ca/annual-general-meeting/
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Second notice to members regarding a proposed membership & acreage fee increase
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The Board of Directors plays an important role in advocating for Alberta and British Columbia seed grower members and in creating marketing and outreach opportunities that support the long-term success of the seed industry. To effectively carry out this work, Directors require sufficient resources to participate, share their expertise, and represent growers across the broader agricultural sector.
Member funds support several key activities, including the development of data and content for the two annual Alberta Seed Guide publications, as well as participation in agricultural industry events and meetings where the Board promotes the value of pedigreed seed. These efforts help raise awareness, strengthen industry connections, and support continued growth and development of the seed sector.
While many of these activities have remained consistent over time, the costs associated with delivering them—particularly travel—have increased significantly over the past five years. Member fees have not been adjusted in more than 12 years, and the proposed fee increase is intended to bring the organization’s operating budget back in line with the current cost of doing business.
Proposed Member Fee Increase
This proposed adjustment will help ensure the Board can continue to effectively advocate for members and support a strong, vibrant seed industry.
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As part of the upcoming Annual General Meeting, members will once again have the opportunity to elect their Board of Directors. Several director positions are open for nominations, and members are encouraged to consider putting their names forward or nominating qualified peers.
New this year, director positions will move to three-year terms. The Board determined that longer terms will allow directors sufficient time to gain experience, contribute meaningfully, and provide informed, effective representation before standing for re-election. This change reflects the Board’s commitment to strong governance and thoughtful leadership on behalf of seed growers.
The revised by-laws continue to include provisions that ensure members are well served by the Board, while also offering flexibility for directors when circumstances change. These updates are designed to support continued engagement, balance commitments, and uphold the Board’s dedication to representing seed growers with knowledge and integrity.
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Board positions open for nominations – second call
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ABCSG is issuing a second call for nominations for upcoming Board of Directors positions, with elections to take place at the Annual General Meeting on February 5, 2026, if required.
Provincial Board of Directors
There are four (4) three-year positions open on the Provincial Board.
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Carl Huvenaars (Vice President) and Russell Wildeman (Finance Committee) have both indicated they will allow their names to stand for in-person elections.
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If more than four nominations are received, an election will be held at the AGM.
National Board Nominee – Canadian Seed Growers’ Association
There is one (1) three-year position available for a nominee to the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association Board.
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Lori Oatway has indicated she will allow her name to stand for in-person elections.
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If more than one nomination is received, an election will be held at the AGM.
Members are encouraged to consider sharing their time, experience, and knowledge of the seed industry by serving on the Board. Any member who has been part of the Association for two consecutive growing seasons is eligible for nomination.
To nominate yourself or another member, please complete the Nomination Form by clicking below.
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Second call for resolutions
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This is the second call for resolutions, providing members with an opportunity to help guide the work of the Board of Directors and bring forward issues or challenges affecting the seed industry. Resolutions allow members to raise important topics, influence priorities, and ensure the Board is addressing matters that matter most to growers.
Members are encouraged to submit a resolution by completing the Resolution Form at the link below.
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Celebrating Kelly Chambers’ transition to retirement
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After more than 40 years of experience in agriculture, with a career focused largely on soil, forages, and crop management, Kelly Chambers, Executive Director of the Alberta–British Columbia Seed Growers (ABCSG), is mindfully transitioning into retirement in 2026.
Since joining ABCSG in 2016, Kelly embraced the complexities of the seed industry with enthusiasm and precision. Learning the detailed and technical nature of the sector was a challenge she accepted from the start—one well suited to her analytical mindset. Her extensive experience planning agricultural education events proved invaluable in supporting Annual General Meetings, Board meetings, and Interprovincial meetings, while her openness to change and commitment to continual improvement helped guide the organization forward.
For Kelly, it has always been the people who made the work meaningful. “I have enjoyed working with many ABCSG members since my start in 2016. They have added to my seed knowledge, industry awareness, and my network of friends,” said Kelly.
“During my six years on the ABCSG Board, I have greatly appreciated Kelly’s hard work and dedication to our membership,” said Sarah Weigum, President of the Board. “The Board is thankful to Kelly for giving us time to prepare for an orderly staff transition, and I look forward to my last few months working with her.”
ABCSG thanks Kelly for her leadership, professionalism, and lasting contributions to the organization and the seed industry, and wishes her all the best as she begins this next chapter.
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Career Opportunity – General Manager, Agriculture
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The Alberta–British Columbia Seed Growers (ABCSG) are seeking a dedicated General Manager, Agriculture, to lead the day-to-day operations of the association and support growers across Alberta and British Columbia. This full-time role is primarily remote with periodic travel throughout Alberta and offers a competitive salary range of $85,000–$105,000 plus benefits and a flexible work arrangement.
Reporting to the ABCSG Board of Directors, the General Manager will oversee governance support, financial administration, member services, communications, and event planning, serving as the main point of contact for members, partners, and stakeholders. This is a hands-on leadership opportunity for someone with experience in agriculture, association management, or not-for-profit operations.
If you’re passionate about supporting seed growers and contributing to the long-term strength of Canada’s pedigreed seed system, we encourage you to apply. The application deadline is February 25, 2026.
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CrossRoads Conference – January 27-28, 2026
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The CrossRoads Crop Conference is a day-and-a-half event taking place January 27–28, bringing together producers, researchers, and industry experts to explore timely topics and emerging trends in crop production and agricultural innovation. The conference features a full agenda of expert-led sessions designed to provide practical insights and forward-looking perspectives for today’s farming operations.
Registration for the CrossRoads Crop Conference remains open until January 23. Additional details and registration information are available below.
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Planning your year?
If you have an event you would like featured in our newsletters, please reach out to Kelly Chambers at kelly@abcseedgrowers.ca.
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