October 2025

Thank You for Speaking Up on SRM

This summer, CSGA shared a detailed analysis of the CFIA’s 52 proposals in its Seed Regulatory Modernization (SRM) Policy Paper along with recommendations for the future of Canada’s seed system. Stakeholders were invited to review the proposals and support our analysis by sharing their feedback directly with CFIA.

To make it easier, CSGA created a simple three-click tool that allowed stakeholders to send their input in support of our recommendations. We were truly impressed to see such strong engagement and letters of support from seed stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of growers, plant breeders, inspectors, seed companies, and several other sector participants were clearly heard.

It’s expected that in early 2026, CFIA will publish a summary of what they heard from this most recent consultation and engagement.  According to their forward regulatory plan, draft amendments to the Seeds Regulations will be published in the Canada Gazette Part I for public comment.

Thank you for taking the time to participate and for standing behind CSGA’s efforts to build a modern seed system that works for everyone.

Attend Your Branch AGM and Plan for #CSGA2026

As we approach the end of the year, CSGA’s Regional Branches are preparing for their Annual General Meetings (AGMs)—a great opportunity to connect with fellow members, discuss regional issues and developments, and help shape the future of seed growing in Canada.

Whether you want to network, stay informed, make your voice heard, or run for a Board position, we encourage you to attend your local Branch AGM. Contact your Branch Executive Director or visit your Branch website for details.

Upcoming Branch AGMs:

• Manitoba Seed Growers’ Association (MSGA)
  • Brandon, MB – Dec 7–9, 2025
• Maritimes Seed Growers’ Association
  • Moncton, NB – Dec 9, 2025
• Saskatchewan Seed Growers’ Association (SSGA)
  • Saskatoon, SK – Jan 12, 2026
• Alberta-British Columbia Seed Growers (ABCSG)
  • Calgary, AB – Feb 4–5, 2026
• Les Producteurs de semences du Québec (PSQ)
  • Drummondville, QC – Feb 11, 2026
• Ontario Seed Growers’ Association (OSGA)
  • Niagara Falls, ON – March 23, 2026

Don’t forget—CSGA National AGM in Whitehorse, Yukon!
Mark your calendar for July 3–5, 2026, and join your peers in Whitehorse, Yukon, for CSGA’s National Annual General Meeting. It’s a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of Canada’s seed sector. With a strong program focused on networking, professional development, and sector updates, CSGA’s AGM brings together seed leaders from across the country.

Whitehorse offers a spectacular northern setting for next year’s AGM—combining breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and the unforgettable glow of the midnight sun.

Conference registration fees are fully claimable as a business expense. More details on the program, accommodations, and travel options will be shared in the coming months.

✈️ Plan your travel early! ✈️ Summer is a busy time in Whitehorse, and flights fill quickly. We can’t wait to see you up North!

Reminder - Consultation on Industrial Hemp Isolation Requirements

CSGA is consulting on proposed revisions to isolation requirements for dioecious and monoecious industrial hemp seed crops producing Foundation, Registered, and Certified status seed. These changes (Sections 10 and 11 of Circular 6) aim to simplify current requirements while maintaining varietal purity and the integrity of the seed certification system.

This review reflects CSGA’s commitment to ensuring seed certification standards remain transparent, science-based, and aligned with stakeholder needs and international practices.

Members of the seed sector value chain are encouraged to share feedback by November 3, 2025. Comments can be sent via email to Mike Scheffel and Gail Harris with “Hemp Isolation Consultation” in the subject line.

Finalize Your Digital Seed Crop Certificates in SeedCert

It’s that time of year! Growers and crop certificate assignees are reminded to log in to SeedCert to finalize digital seed crop certificates and ensure all accounts are settled.

Once your certificate is authorized, you’ll receive an email notification inviting you to log in to SeedCert to finalize your crop certificate. To complete it:

1. Sign the digital declaration
2. Enter your harvested quantity (before cleaning)

If you don’t have your harvested quantity ready, you can still access a non-completed crop certificate and return later to finalize it. Once complete, you can download or share your certificate directly with a third party from within SeedCert.

We also encourage you to:

• Visit the Crop History tab to view all your fields in certification and confirm if any require further action.
• Check the My Payments tab to confirm your account is settled and download invoices or statements.

If you need help, contact our support team via email or call 613-236-0497 ext. 8803.

Early Bird Deadline for GrowCanada 2025

Don’t miss your chance to attend GrowCanada 2025, taking place December 2–4 at the Hyatt Regency Calgary. The conference will explore the theme Meeting the Moment, bringing together leaders from across the agriculture and food value chain to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping our sector.

Register before Thursday, October 30, to take advantage of early bird pricing. Please see the full conference program and the registration link.