Why a Prairie Grain Farmer Became a Champion for Seed Processing

Todd McCann didn’t set out to be a voice in the seed world. In fact, he’s not even a seed grower.

But what started as a simple act of curiosity has led to over two decades of involvement in seed processing and policy. And while his path wasn’t linear, it’s one that shows how curiosity, community, and a willingness to show up can shape an entire industry.

McCann lives near Coaldale and operates an irrigated farm. He is a member of the County of Lethbridge Seed Cleaning Co-op. Now president of the Alberta Seed Processors, he comes from a seed family. His grandfather was once part of the local seed board. But as a young farmer, McCann didn’t see the point of all those meetings.

“For years, I didn’t have time, or didn’t think all this stuff was important,” he recalls. “As you get a little older, you realize, I gotta find the best variety for my farm. Well, how do you find the variety? You start asking questions. You start talking to seed growers.”

That shift in mindset opened the door. He began attending meetings at the local seed plant. One thing led to another, and he eventually served on that local board for 21 years.

“I thought, there are some folks that do it longer, and I give them full accolades. If you can give it your attention and do the job for more than 21 years, good for you. I just thought I was running out of new ideas for our local board.”