Alberta Canola Welcomes New Director for Region 6

Apr 16, 2025

Alberta Canola is pleased to welcome Jeff Lenz of Stony Plain as the newly appointed director representing Region 6 on the Board of the Alberta Canola Producers Commission.

Region 6 did not receive any nominations during the fall election, nor were any candidates nominated at the 2025 Annual General Meeting. As per the Commission’s regulations, the Board moved forward with appointing a director to ensure grower representation in the region.

“We’re excited to welcome Jeff to the board,” said Board Chair Andre Harpe. “Each director brings unique strengths and perspectives from their region to the table. With Jeff’s appointment, all 12 regions across Alberta now have farmer representation.”

Jeff steps into the role previously held by Wayne Schneider of Nisku. “It’s a privilege to represent the growers in Region 6,” said Lenz. “I look forward to contributing to the discussions and decisions that impact canola growers across Alberta.”

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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.