The Alberta Pulse Growers (APG) have named this year's recipient of the 10th annual Alberta Pulse Industry Innovator Award.
Each year, APG recognizes a person or organization whose progressive thinking and tireless efforts helped build Alberta’s pulse industry into the flourishing sector that it is today.
Chair Shane Strydhorst says this year's honoree is Dr DJ Bing with Agriculture and AgriFood Canada's Lacombe Research and Development Centre.
He notes the strength, consistency and performance of the field pea varieties released from Dr. Bing’s program have regularly provided, and continue to provide, excellent returns to the farm gate.
"He's put 30 or more varieties on the market in the last number of years. On our farm, we've been growing his varieties since the mid-2000s. We've had really good success with some of those older varieties like Canstar and Thunderbird and more recently with AAC Lacombe. Some of his newest varieties such as (AAC) Carver and Chrome are commanding significant acres in Alberta and Saskatchewan and increasing. One of his newest varieties, AC Planet should be really a good fit for a lot of farmers and it looks like it has slightly higher protein, so it'll also be a fit for the processing side."
In accepting the award Bing thanked the Alberta Pulse Growers saying it was a great honor.
"It gives me profound pleasure and responsibility because you have supported the program by investing in the program. I always feel I am responsible for producing the products and returning your investment. I appreciate this working relationship and your unwavering support for the program. This award is also recognition for my team and all the people who have worked together and been involved."
Alberta pulse farmers and distinguished guests were on hand to celebrate Bing and his achievements at an award luncheon during recent APG Joint Director-Advisor meetings in Lethbridge.
Bing’s colleagues celebrated his accomplishments in a video that was shown during the ceremony and is available on the APG Youtube channel.
Strydhorst says a number of Bing's varieties will be going into the ground again this year.
He says with spring seeding not that far away he hopes everyone has a good and a safe year in the field.