Alberta Barley turns 30
I would like to begin my chair message by acknowledging that farmers have faced a tremendous amount of uncertainty and stress this year from both the COVID-19 pandemic and the historic drought that plagued a large portion of the Prairies. As farmers, we know that our industry can be volatile to the mercies of Mother Nature, and while our industry is also resilient, it is likely the effects of this crop year will be felt over the coming months as we prepare for another growing season. I want farmers to know that they are not alone in the challenges they have faced this year. I encourage you to reach out to your neighbours and ask beyond how their crops faired at harvest, ask them how they are doing. Mental wellbeing is even more important than a successful crop year. You can read about a few resources to support farmers’ mental health in the AgSafe Alberta article on page 2.
As we wrap up this harvest season, we head into another busy season for Alberta Barley where we look forward to interacting with farmers at regional meetings throughout the province, and at the Prairie Cereals Summit (PCS) where our annual general meeting (AGM) is hosted. This year is a monumental one as it marks Alberta Barley’s 30-year anniversary. Alberta Barley has been a significant contribution to the Canadian barley industry since being established by the Western Barley Growers Association in 1991. At the time of its creation, Alberta Barley was the first established wheat or barley commission in Canada, and it has served as a successful model for commissions that have since been formed across the Prairies. We look forward to putting a spotlight on some of the commission’s greatest achievements at this year’s events.
Taking a moment to highlight just one of those events, PCS – formerly known as the Prairie Barley Summit – has become a highly anticipated industry conference event, and this year will be no exception. Taking place at the historic Fairmont Banff Springs hotel on December 8-9, 2021, the conference will feature another great lineup of industry speakers, a beer tasting event, and the premiere of a celebratory Alberta Barley 30-year anniversary video during the banquet dinner. We are beyond excited to once again meet with farmers at live events and be able to take in new industry knowledge together. We hope to see you there! For more information and to register for this year’s regional meetings, PCS conference, and Alberta Barley’s AGM visit albertawheatbarley.com.