December 11, 2024

Season's Greetings from Your President

It’s hard to believe we’re wrapping up another year already! 2024 has been a busy one for all of us, but it’s also been a year to celebrate and reflect on how far we’ve come as seed growers and as an Association. Every time I think about what we’ve accomplished together—120 years of dedication to seed quality and innovation—I’m reminded of why I’m so proud to be part of this incredible group.

This year, our members produced over 1.18 million acres of seed. That’s not just a number—it’s a testament to the hard work and commitment of every grower, ensuring that Canadian agriculture stays strong and competitive. I’m excited about what 2025 has in store. We’re focused on strengthening the seed certification system and creating new opportunities for the next generation of seed growers. It’s all about building on our strong foundation and ensuring a bright future.

As we gather with family and friends to share meals over the holidays, it’s important to remember the vital role seed growers and farmers play in making our celebrations possible. Their hard work and dedication support the traditions that bring us together.

On a personal note, I encourage you all to take a moment to support those in need in your community. Whether it’s donating to a food bank, volunteering, or simply lending a hand to a neighbour, these small acts of kindness not only help others but also bring a little extra Christmas spirit into your own heart.

So, from my family to yours, thank you for your hard work, your passion, and your belief in the power of what we do together. I hope you have a chance to rest, recharge, and spend time with the people who matter most to you. Here’s to an exciting and successful year ahead.

All the best,
Glenn

Exciting news! CSGA Members Vote in Favour of Expanded Membership Classes

Starting next February, CSGA will offer Affiliate and Associate class memberships.

At the November 26^th Special General Meeting in Calgary during the Interprovincial Meeting, members voted unanimously to adopt new By-laws that reintroduce Affiliate and Associate memberships and update CSGA’s governance to reflect modern best practices.

The rights and privileges of CSGA Regular members have not changed. Seed growers will continue to apply through the CSGA Membership Application/Renewal form, which must be completed and signed by the grower(s) producing pedigreed seed crops in the current year.

All three CSGA membership classes—Regular, Affiliate, and Associate—have the right to attend member-to-member meetings and submit member proposals. Regular Members can run for the Board by nomination at their Provincial Annual General Meeting (AGM) and vote to elect Regular Directors to the Board at the CSGA AGM. Affiliate Members can run for and vote to elect Affiliate Directors at the CSGA AGM. For every 100 Affiliate Members, one Board seat is allocated exclusively for Affiliate representation (up to two Board seats).

To promote equality and accessibility, CSGA has set a unified membership fee of $240 across all membership types, which reflects our commitment to equality and unity across membership classes while ensuring membership remains accessible to all.

Affiliate memberships will be open to any regulated party in Canada’s seed certification system, including:

• Seed growers not actively producing seed crops in the current fiscal year
• Plant breeders not applying for the certification of Breeder seed in the current fiscal year
• Authorized Seed Crop Inspection Services (ASCIS), Licensed Seed Crop Inspectors (LSCI), seed analysts, seed graders, seed laboratories, seed establishments, and operators of Registered Seed Establishments authorized, licensed, accredited, or registered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA)
• Seed companies that do not meet Regular membership requirements
• Active plant breeding institutions

Associate memberships will be open to any sector association or organization that is involved in or has an interest in pedigreed seed production to become a member, including:

• Seed sector associations
• National and provincial agriculture and agrifood associations
• Organizations that support the seed sector
• Government and intergovernmental organizations
• International seed sector associations

CSGA’s introduction of Affiliate and Associate memberships opens the door for more stakeholders to actively participate in our seed crop certification system. This initiative enhances expertise, diversity, and collaboration at a critical moment in the modernization of Canada’s seed sector, fostering broader involvement in addressing the big-picture issues that will shape the future of our sector.

If you wish to become a CSGA member, please complete the Membership Interest Form to receive an application package in February. We also encourage you to share this opportunity with others and organizations that might be interested in joining us in advancing Canada’s seed sector.

If you have any questions, please reach out directly via email or call (613) 236.0497 ext. 8803.

Updated Mission and Vision Statement to Reflect CSGA’s Evolving Role

CSGA has refreshed its Mission and Vision statements to better align with the Association’s current role, goals, and responsibilities in the seed sector. With SRM reaching a pivotal stage, this update ensures our mission accurately reflects CSGA’s leadership in seed crop certification and standards-setting.

Mission Statement: 

Deliver an inclusive and transparent national seed crop certification and standards-setting system that advances collaboration and innovation while upholding the highest standards of quality, trust, and excellence in seed production for the benefit of Canadian agriculture. 

Our Vision for the Future:

Ensure Canada has an agile, transparent, efficient, and effective seed certification system and regulatory framework that fosters innovation, empowers farmers, strengthens collaboration across the value chain, and supports Canada’s position as a respected global leader in seed.

The new statements strengthen CSGA’s foundation and position us to better serve the seed sector as it evolves by providing:

• Clear Direction: The revised statements provide a shared understanding of CSGA’s purpose and strategic goals for our Board, staff, members, and stakeholders.
• Stronger Credibility: By aligning our statements with CSGA’s regulatory role, we emphasize our commitment to integrity, transparency, and excellence in seed certification.
• Greater Engagement: Clearer, more precise language will support outreach efforts, making it easier to connect with members and drive collaboration during Affiliate and Associate membership initiatives.

2024 CSGA Seed Crop Certification Acreage and Membership Report

As the year comes to a close, we’re pleased to share the 2024 CSGA Seed Crop Certification Acreage and Membership Report with you!

2024 Top Takeaways

CSGA certified 1,188,692 acres of seed across 15,854 fields and 2,436 plots. These numbers highlight our members’ dedication to producing high-quality seed and the impact of their efforts across the country.

Soybean and Pea Rebound: We are seeing Soybean acres slowly increasing from their 2022 low, and Pea acres have rebounded to previous levels with a significant increase from last year.

Alm-OAT There: While Oat acres have increased over last year, they still aren’t back to the 2019-2022 highs.

Wheat Waffle: Overall, wheat acres are the lowest they’ve been since 2014.

The Canola that Could: Canola acres are down but are still higher than the 2019 low.

Dive into the details of the 2024 CSGA Seed Crop Certification Acreage and Membership Report!

And The Winner Is…

Congratulations, Didsbury Seeds, on winning the CSGA 120th Anniversary #ChooseCertifiedSeed contest! You are going to enjoy cooking on your new Pit Boss Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker!

Thank you to everyone who participated. We heard some great reasons why you #ChooseCertifiedSeed and helped us celebrate #CSGA120!

But—just because the contest is over doesn’t mean the fun has to stop! We’d love for you to keep sharing why you love Certified seed. Use your “I Heart Certified Seed” sticker (we included some in your November Seed World Canada magazine) or reach out to us to get more—we’re happy to help!

Everyone has a part to play in supporting the Certified seed brand, and your enthusiasm goes a long way in showing your commitment. Let’s keep the Certified seed spirit growing! Every step we’ve taken, we’ve taken together, so THANK YOU! You can explore our remarkable history here.

Finalize Your Seed Crop Certificates in SeedCert

Before the holidays, it’s always a good idea to make sure your digital seed crop certificates are completed and your accounts are settled. Log in to SeedCert to review your account and address any outstanding items. For step-by-step guidance, the Resource section on the SeedCert home page offers a “How To” video and a detailed PDF guide.

As mail service through Canada Post is currently unavailable, we are asking clients to use payment methods other than a cheque. You can use a credit card on the ‘Payments’ tab of SeedCert or contact us directly at 613-236-0497, ext. 8803, for any assistance. Please note that payments are required before we can release a Crop Certificate. Thank you!

Mark Your Calendars for the CSGA Branch AGMs

The CSGA Branches have set the dates for their 2024-2025 Annual General Meetings (AGMs).

Participating in your regional AGM is a great way to contribute to shaping provincial and national priorities while discussing the issues that matter most to you. These meetings keep you informed about local initiatives, give you a platform to share valuable feedback and help you connect with fellow members and colleagues.

Mark your calendar and make your voice count!

Manitoba Seed Growers’ Association

• December 11-12, 2024, Hilton Winnipeg Airport Suites, Winnipeg, MB
• Click here for more information

Saskatchewan Seed Growers’ Association AGM

• January 15, 2025, Teachers Credit Union Place (TCUP), Saskatoon, SK
• Room blocks at the Holiday Inn Downtown and Hilton Garden Inn

Alberta-British Columbia Seed Growers’ Association AGM

• February 4-5, 2025, Sheraton Cavalier, Calgary, AB

Producteurs de semences du Québec AGM

• February 12, 2025, Hotel Delta de Trois-Rivières, Centre de congrès, Trois-Rivière, QC

Ontario Seed Growers’ Association AGM

• March 17, 2025, London, ON

Please contact your Branch for further details.

CSGA Health: Affordable Health and Dental Insurance for You and Your Employees

At the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA), we know that running a seed company goes beyond business—it’s a commitment to a unique way of life, full of both opportunities and challenges. That’s why we introduced CSGA Health—affordable, comprehensive health and dental insurance designed exclusively for the Canadian seed sector.

Why CSGA Health?

Your health is just as vital as the fields you tend, and CSGA Health brings you and your team the peace of mind you deserve.

Whether it’s just you and your family or a large team of dedicated employees, we offer a health plan that supports every facet of your well-being—at a price that suits the seed sector.

CSGA Health Highlights

• Comprehensive Coverage including health, dental, drug, vision, and travel insurance
• Mental Health Support resources tailored to the specific needs of agricultural professionals
• Critical Illness and Disability Protection for added financial security when life brings the unexpected
• Customizable Plans Choose the level of coverage that best suits your needs

By partnering with David Burns & Associates and Benefits by Design, we’ve leveraged economies of scale to bring you discounted insurance rates.

With more seed professionals like you participating, we can keep costs low and coverage robust for everyone involved.

Benefits for You and Your Business

• Financial Protection – safeguard your health and your family’s future
• Lower Costs – as participation grows, costs can decrease for everyone
• Attract and Retain Top Talent – show your commitment to employee well-being with accessible health coverage

Start experiencing the peace of mind that comes with knowing you’re protected when you need it most. Invest in your health today with CSGA Health—a plan crafted with the Canadian seed sector in mind.

Ready to Enroll?

Visit our webpage to learn more about CSGA Health. To get a personalized quote, please email David Burns or call 1-800-606-0445.

CSGA Office Holiday Hours

The CSGA office will be closed for the holidays starting at 4 p.m. ET on Friday, December 20, and will reopen at 8 a.m. ET on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

We hope you will enjoy this special time with your family and friends. We wish you all the warmest holiday cheer!