August 2025

Let’s Grow Canada: Calling on the Federal Government to Make Agriculture a National Economic Priority

CSGA has joined more than 20 national agricultural organizations in signing an open letter to Prime Minister Mark Carney urging the federal government to make agriculture and agri-food a central pillar of Canada’s economic and nation-building agenda.

The joint letter—coordinated through the Let’s Grow Canada initiative—outlines the strategic opportunity in front of Canada: agriculture is already contributing $150 billion to GDP and employing 2.3 million Canadians, but with strong federal leadership, investment and coordination, the sector has the potential to contribute even more.

The signatories call for bold action and clear commitments to:

• Establish a focused growth strategy for agriculture and food security
• Create a regulatory environment that supports innovation and competitiveness
• Prioritize trade and transportation infrastructure to support agri-food supply chains
• Modernize risk management tools in light of climate and market disruptions

Without decisive action, the letter warns that Canada risks falling behind in a global race to lead in sustainable food production.

“Certified seed is at the core of a productive, resilient and competitive agriculture system. A national growth strategy that includes modern seed systems, agri-tech investment, and support for domestic processing can strengthen Canada’s food security and economic future,” says Doug Miller, CSGA’s Executive Director.

Canadian agriculture is built on a strong foundation of innovation, science, and partnership—but unlocking its full potential will require strategic leadership at the federal level. CSGA is proud to add its voice to this important national dialogue and looks forward to working with government and sector partners to advance a shared vision for sustainable growth and leadership.

CFIA Releases Final SRM Policy Paper: CSGA Analysis and Feedback Guide Coming Soon

The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has released its long-anticipated Seed Regulatory Modernization (SRM) Policy Paper, which outlines 52 proposed regulatory changes and launches a 65-day public consultation.

Many of the proposed directions reflect CSGA’s long-standing vision for a more transparent, efficient, and responsive seed certification system.

We are currently reviewing the policy paper and will share our detailed analysis and member feedback guide in the coming days. We appreciate your patience and encourage members to wait for our guidance before submitting comments to the CFIA. 

CSGA Shortlisted for National Governance Award

We’re proud to share that the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) has been shortlisted for the 2025 Excellence in Governance Awards in the “Organizational Governance” category, presented by Governance Professionals of Canada (GPC).

This national recognition celebrates the governance modernization work undertaken by CSGA over the past year—most notably the reintroduction of Affiliate and Associate membership classes, which followed a comprehensive By-law review, national member consultation, and a unanimous vote at our November 2024 Special General Meeting.

The nomination also highlights our efforts to update Board policies and develop new governance procedures, all of which are part of our commitment to building a more inclusive, transparent, and responsive Association. These changes support our long-term vision for a next-generation CSGA, especially as we position ourselves for an expanded role in Canada’s seed certification system under Seed Regulatory Modernization.

Being recognized by Canada’s leading corporate governance body is a meaningful milestone and a testament to the thoughtful work CSGA has done to strengthen its governance.

We extend our sincere thanks to CSGA’s Governance Committee—Glenn Logan, Roy Klym, Carl Bolton, Andrew Arye—and staff Caroline Lafontaine and Doug Miller, whose leadership and dedication made this achievement possible.

The winners of the 2025 Excellence in Governance Awards will be announced this November.

Must-Read: Why Canada Needs a National Strategy for Public Plant Breeding

Public plant breeding has long been a quiet cornerstone of Canadian agriculture — driving innovation, boosting yields, and building resilience on farms across the country. But today, that foundation is under serious threat.

In a powerful new article published in Seed World Canada’s July 2025 edition, CSGA Executive Director Doug Miller argues that public plant breeding is a national treasure — but it is being neglected. Doug makes a strong case for a coordinated national strategy to address chronic underfunding, succession challenges, and the lack of a long-term vision to sustain Canada’s public breeding capacity.

Doug’s call to action is already resonating across the sector. This article and the panel discussion at CSGA’s AGM underscore a critical point: our seed system depends on the sustained strength of our breeding programs. Without action, the future of one of Canada’s most important innovation engines is at risk.

It’s time to talk about what’s at stake — and what comes next.

CSGA’s Doug Miller Elected President of AOSCA for 2026–2027

We’re proud to share that CSGA’s Executive Director Doug Miller has been elected President of the Association of Official Seed Certifying Agencies (AOSCA) for the 2026–2027 term.

Doug’s election, confirmed at AOSCA’s August 2025 Annual Meeting in Kansas City, is a recognition of his vision, leadership, and long-standing commitment to seed certification and international collaboration. He succeeds Billy Skaggs of the Georgia Crop Improvement Association, who served with distinction from 2024 to 2026 and was honoured with AOSCA’s Past President Award, presented by Doug.

As AOSCA President, Doug will bring a forward-looking, collaborative approach to supporting AOSCA’s mission and its members. His priorities will include strengthening cross-border partnerships, advancing innovation and digital transformation in seed certification, and continuing to promote the role of certified seed.

Doug’s leadership at CSGA has been instrumental in shaping a next-generation seed certification system in Canada, and his new role at AOSCA will further elevate CSGA’s presence and influence on the international stage.

Congratulations, Doug!

Mark Your Calendar: #CSGA2026 Heads North to Whitehorse, Yukon!

Announced at the AGM in Victoria, we’re thrilled to share that #CSGA2026 will take place in Whitehorse, Yukon, from July 3–5, 2026! The meeting is open to all members and stakeholders, and we hope you’ll join us for this unique opportunity to connect, learn, and help shape the future of the Canadian seed sector.
 
It’s a bit outside our usual AGM locations, but that’s the point—we wanted to give our community the chance to visit a part of Canada they might not otherwise get to see. And don’t forget, conference registration fees can be claimed as a business expense, making it a perfect mix of business and adventure. With its northern charm, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, Whitehorse is sure to offer an unforgettable setting for our next gathering.

Watch for registration details—and don’t wait to book your travel! Whitehorse is popular in summer, and flights fill up fast.

Payment Options Update: E-Transfers Now Accepted!

We’re making it easier than ever to manage your CSGA account—you can now pay your invoices by e-Transfer.

This new option offers a simple, secure, and convenient way to send payments directly from your bank. Just send your e-Transfer to accounting@seedgrowers.ca and be sure to include your account and/or invoice number(s) in the message.

All Available Payment Options:

• NEW! E-Transfer: Send payment to accounting@seedgrowers.ca. Include your account and/or invoice number(s) in the message.
• EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer): Send remittance details to accounting@seedgrowers.ca to avoid processing delays.
• Credit Card: Pay online through the Payments tab in SeedCert or by phone. A 2.4% surcharge applies.
• Cheque: Payable to Canadian Seed Growers’ Association. Include your account and/or invoice number(s) on the cheque.

You can view and manage your account balance anytime under the Payments tab in SeedCert. Keeping your account up to date helps ensure uninterrupted service and the timely issuance of Crop Certificates.

For any questions, please email us. We appreciate your continued support!

Stay on Track — Get Your Membership and Certification Applications Submitted Today!

With the 2025 crop season well underway, now is the perfect time to ensure your CSGA membership and seed crop certification applications are submitted for 2025 before the deadline dates.

Submitting your Membership Application Form early ensures you’re included in regional seed guides and have uninterrupted access to all CSGA services.

Why is This Important?

Before seed guides are published, growers and crop certificate assignees must provide consent annually to share their information with third parties. This is done through your Membership Application Form, where you can choose what information is shared.

Even if you were a member last year, consent must be renewed each year. You’ll only be able to review or update your consent preferences in SeedCert after submitting your current year’s Membership Application.

Third Parties with assigned crop production may provide consent by submitting the Third Party Consent and Account Information Form.

Stay Connected to Your Crops Anytime, Anywhere

Follow your certification progress in near real-time throughout the season in SeedCert — no matter where you are. Remember, only CSGA can issue the final certification decision — and an uninspected, harvested crop cannot be certified. Before you harvest, be sure to check your crop’s status in SeedCert to confirm everything is on track.