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Agriculture Roundup for Wednesday December 7, 2022

The National Farmer Union (NFU) has named its new president.

Jenn Pfenning is a family owner and the director of Human Resources, Marketing and Operations at Pfenning’s Organic Farm in New Hamburg, Ont. She also works with local and migrant workers.

Pfenning takes over from Katie Ward who served as president for four years.

Stewart Wells of Swift Current, Sask. will serve as the first vice president while the second vice president is Al Birchard of Verwood, Sask.

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Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.