Farms.com Home   Ag Industry News

Dairy Farmers of Canada executive director steps down

Caroline Emond’s resignation effective July 4

By Diego Flammini
Assistant Editor, North American Content
Farms.com

The search is on for Dairy Farmers of Canada’s (DFC) next executive director as Caroline Emond is stepping down as of July 4.

Since joining the organization in January 2015, Emond played a part in many DFC initiatives including leading producers to a new agreement in principle with processors, helping launch the organization’s new visual identity and minimizing the impact of the Trans-Pacific Partnership on Canadian dairy farmers, according to a June 27 release from DFC.


Caroline Emond

“Caroline has brought a breath of fresh air to DFC. We are grateful for her legacy, which will contribute to a bright future for the dairy industry,” Wally Smith, DFC president, said in the statement.

“She was instrumental in one of the most challenging times in the history of Canada’s dairy industry.”

DFC will spend the next few months searching for its new executive director.

And with NAFTA renegotiations scheduled to begin in August, the organization believes its members can represent the Canadian dairy industry well, even if a new executive director isn’t named by the times negotiations begin.

“DFC has a very experienced management team,” Isabelle Bouchard, director of communications and government relations with DFC, told Farms.com on June 28.

“At this time it’s not a problem for DFC not to have an executive director. “I’ve had interactions with the proper authorities regarding the NAFTA file, and so far so good.”

The next executive director of DFC may have to defend Canada’s dairy industry  through continuing accusations of protectionism.

“Our respective dairy industries are firmly of the view that the operation of Ontario’s Class 6 and Canada’s Class 7 contravene Canada’s international commitments,” says a June 27 joint letter signed by a number of dairy organizations including the U.S. Dairy Export Council, National Milk Producers Federation, Australian Dairy Industry Council and European Dairy Association.

“Canada’s increasingly protectionist policies are diverting trade with attendant global price-depressing impacts, and are in conflict with the principles of free markets and fair and transparent trade.”


Trending Video

Building Better Barns: Innovations in Hog Facility Design with PSI’s Tim Messinger

Video: Building Better Barns: Innovations in Hog Facility Design with PSI’s Tim Messinger

In this exclusive interview from the 2025 Iowa Pork Congress Rachel Fishback and Swineweb sit down with Tim Messinger, a seasoned expert from Precision Structures Inc. (PSI) of Wellman, Iowa, to delve into the latest trends and innovations in hog barn construction and remodeling.

With nearly two decades at PSI, Tim shares his journey from draftsman to sales, highlighting the company’s comprehensive services in building farrow-to-wean complexes, finishers, and nurseries. He emphasizes the critical role of proper site layout and grading in barn construction, ensuring long-term efficiency and scalability for pork producers.

Tim also discusses the increasing importance of advanced ventilation systems and smart controllers like Maximus and AP Edge, which offer producers enhanced monitoring and control over barn environments. As construction costs have risen, PSI has seen an uptick in remodeling projects, particularly in slat replacements, roof refurbishments and barn gating remodels to extend the lifespan of existing facilities.

A key takeaway from Tim is the value of partnering with reputable builders who offer robust post-sale support. PSI’s dedicated service team stands ready to assist clients 24/7, addressing emergencies and ensuring optimal barn performance.

For pork producers looking to build or upgrade their facilities, this conversation offers valuable insights into best practices and the latest industry developments.