2017 Agronomist Of The Year

Apr 20, 2018

An agronomist based in Arnaud, Manitoba was named the 2017 Agronomist of the Year by the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers (CAAR).

Barry Mankewich, who's worked at GJ Chemical Company Ltd. since 2006, received the award at a conference in Saskatoon held in February.

He explained why agronomy was the right career decision for him.

"I like working with producers, I enjoy being out in the field. I get a real high out of seeing one of our producers grow a real good crop and knowing that I was part of his process in doing it. Whether it was recommending fertility or the crop protection part of it, or the seed and following it through to the end. When the producer's had a good year, I feel I've done my job."

Mankewich has been in the agriculture business for over 40 years, serving 30 of those years as an agronomist.

He explained the importance of staying up-to-date on the latest developments.

"You have to stay on top of things, you can't rely on all the old stuff. The old stuff is basically experience and there's new technology coming out every day and if you don't stay on top of it you're basically going to be left in the dust. You have to keep informed on what new products are coming out, where they've got to fit."

Source : Steinbachonline

Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.