It would be an understatement to say that 2020 wasn’t the year we expected it to be.
The Association, staff, members, their businesses, and the entire agricultural sector has been impacted in some way by the pandemic, and now our usual holiday traditions and gatherings will be very different because of COVID-19. Additionally, this summer’s Seeds Canada amalgamation vote represented a critical crossroads for the Canadian seed sector and the CSGA. The realities of 2020 have certainly proved challenging, but I am immensely proud of how quickly we have all adjusted to meet the new ‘normal.’
As the year comes to a close, I can tell you that your Board of Directors is eager for 2021. We are busy planning for the Association’s future and are excited to see what the new year brings.
To our members and key stakeholders – your support, trust and collaborative efforts allow us to continually improve the CSGA. Please know that each of you plays a key role in our Association’s success and its ability to advance the Canadian seed sector. For this, I say thank you.
To the CSGA staff, on behalf of the Board of Directors, I wish to sincerely thank you for everything you have done this year. Each of you has stepped up with grace and professionalism to meet the needs of running the Association from home offices. Our members were never left without someone who could help guide them through.
And to our Canadian farmers who bring us the holiday meals we enjoy; you are essential to the health and security of Canadians. The future of our country depends on the future of our farms – to each of you a heartfelt thank you.
Throughout this holiday season, and as we move into a new (and hopefully better) year, I wish you moments of peace amid the challenges, connections with family and friends even if they must be virtual, and the warmth of memories from holidays past.
The CSGA office will be closed from 4 pm ET Tuesday, December 22, until 8 am Monday, January 4, 2021. If you need assistance with any outstanding seed crop certificates, please reach out to the office before then.
On behalf of the CSGA Board of Directors and staff, we wish you and your families very happy holidays and may the New Year find us all healthier and safer. Here’s to 2021 – a time for new beginnings!
Sincerely,
Joe Rennick
President
