Ron Markert – 2025 Robertson Associate Award Recipient

Ron Markert has spent a lifetime dedicated to the seed sector, following in the footsteps of his father. For over 73 years, the Markert family has been producing high-quality seed, and Ron’s deep-rooted passion for agriculture began at an early age. As a youngster, he spent countless hours cleaning out bins, working in the seed plant, and moving bags of seed by hand, as all seed was stored in small bags at that time.

After completing high school, Ron attended the University of Alberta in Edmonton, earning a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture. His dream had always been to farm, so upon graduation, he returned home to put his education into practice. In 1977, he produced his first pedigreed seed crop, Galt barley, marking the start of what would become a remarkable 48-year career as a pedigreed seed grower. He achieved Select Cereal Grower status in 1985 and Select Oilseed Grower status in 1987.

Ron’s contributions to the seed sector extend beyond the farm. He served on the Alberta/BC Seed Growers’ Board for 13 years, holding every leadership position, including President. His dedication continued at the national level, where he served on the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA) National Board for four years. During the Seed Synergy Collaboration Project, Ron continued to serve the sector by participating in the CSGA Grassroots Committee—a group of seed growers providing advice to the Board on the proposed amalgamation—and the Seed Synergy Oversight Committee, which examined governance issues related to the potential unification. These roles reflected Ron’s commitment to ensuring growers’ voices were heard in shaping the sector’s future.

Following his tenure with CSGA, Ron was an active member of the Alberta Grain Commission and played a key role as a founding director of SeedNet, a grower-owned seed retailer, helping to shape the future of seed production and distribution.

Beyond his professional achievements, Ron’s greatest joy is his family. He and his wife, Louise, have been married for 43 years and raised three children, each of whom has carved their own path in agriculture and related industries.

Now, as Ron and Louise transition into retirement, they remain busy with their six grandchildren, cherishing the opportunity to spend time with them and pass on their knowledge and love for agriculture. They also enjoy spending winters in Victoria, where they work on improving their golf game.

Reflecting on his career, Ron considers being a seed grower one of the best decisions he ever made. It has provided him with countless opportunities to meet great people, build lasting relationships, and contribute to an industry that has been a cornerstone of his family’s legacy. He remains grateful to the CSGA and the broader agricultural community for the experiences and connections that have enriched his life.