LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

As summer comes to a close and #Harvest2024 is in full swing, I want to take a moment to personally update you on some of the key activities and initiatives we’ve been focused on at the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) this past quarter.

Here For You Since 1904
June 2024 was a significant milestone for CSGA, as we marked our 120th anniversary! Since 1904, CSGA has been a cornerstone of Canadian agriculture and has played a foundational role in Canada’s seed sector. To every CSGA member, researcher, farmer, and partner who has walked this path with us – thank you. Together, we have built a modern and efficient seed crop certification system that helps ensure farmers have access to high quality seed of the latest plant breeding innovation.

We take great pride in being one of Canada’s oldest agricultural associations. For 120 years, we’ve been committed to delivering a public good service that strengthens Canadian agriculture. With our strong foundation, we continue to evolve, ensuring Canada’s reputation for high-quality seed while also adapting to the needs of Canada’s modern and competitive seed sector. By embracing innovation and collaboration, we are helping to shape the future of Canada’s seed sector.


To help celebrate our 120th anniversary, we have created a special commemorative video and launched an “I Heart Certified Seed” campaign. I would encourage you to share and participate in these and many more CSGA activities this coming year.

Building a More Open and Inclusive Seed Certification System
As part of CSGA’s ongoing efforts to develop an open and inclusive seed certification system, CSGA has been working with our members, provincial branches, and partners to reintroduce Associate and Affiliate membership classes at CSGA.

We believe that reintroducing these two membership classes will strengthen our Association and enhance diversity during a critical phase of the evolution and modernization of Canada’s seed sector. As CSGA strives to be the main administrator of Canada’s seed certification system, this proposal helps ensure that all regulated parties engaged in Canada’s seed certification system can become CSGA members. The proposal also opens seats on the CSGA Board for eligible Affiliate members.

This summer, CSGA launched an eight (8) week public consultation to hear from members and stakeholders. Well over 80% of respondents were in favour of reintroducing these membership classes, and 86% supported the proposed By-law amendments. These numbers reflect the strong support within our sector for these changes, and I’m grateful to everyone who took the time to participate and share their thoughts. We invite you to read the “What We Heard” report.

CSGA members have been invited to a Special Members Meeting to vote on proposed By-laws that would enable the reintroduction of these membership classes and ensure CSGA’s By-laws adhere to best governance practices.

CSGA in Action
This summer, CSGA actively participated in several key meetings, ensuring that Canada’s seed certification system and standards maintain its global competitive advantage and reinforcing Canada’s domestic and international leadership position.

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