Portage MLA Jeff Bereza is calling the recent Canadian Federation of Agriculture (CFA) conference in Winnipeg one of the best agriculture events he's attended.
The gathering, held July 15–16 at the Delta Hotel, brings together industry leaders, elected officials, and farm organizations from across Canada. It includes a CFA Board of Directors meeting, a half-day policy summit, and an afternoon roundtable discussion.
"It was amazing," Bereza says. "It was representatives from all over Canada, representing many different farm organizations from beef producers to dairy producers, canola, soybeans, and wheat producers."
Bereza notes he had the opportunity to connect with multiple senators, including Senator Rob Black and Senator Brent Cotter. He adds he plans to meet again with Senator Cotter in Saskatoon later this month to continue the conversation.
Labour disruptions remain a top concern
Among the top issues discussed during the summit was the impact of transportation and port disruptions on Canadian agriculture exports.
"One of the things that is really hurting Canada is when we go through these labour disruptions," Bereza says. "Whether they be at the railroad or whether they be at the ports. Is Canada a truly reliable partner?"
He continues, "These countries rely on us to get grain, but things can be stopped by things like labour disruption."
Indigenous partnership a key highlight
Another standout moment, Bereza says, was the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and the National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture and Food (NCIAF).
Bereza remarks, "That’s fantastic. I think that's all part of reconciliation as well, and understanding the First People of Canada and what they did to move agriculture forward."
He mentions that both NCIAF President and CEO Callie Wood and Senior Vice President of Business Development Chris McKee were present at the signing. He adds, "Having them there as well and signing a memorandum of understanding is going to go a long way to move agriculture into the next century."
Bereza notes he is looking forward to continuing the conversation with both leaders.
Next stop: Saskatoon conference
Bereza says he plans to attend the upcoming Midwestern Legislative Conference on Agriculture and Rural Affairs in Saskatoon later this month. The event is set to run July 25–30 and will bring together lawmakers and agriculture officials from across North America.
He adds that Manitoba's strong representation at the Winnipeg CFA summit, especially from Keystone Agricultural Producers and local leaders like CFA vice-president Jill Verwey, made an impact.
"Keystone Agriculture Producers had a huge presence in this," Bereza says. "They put on a fantastic event. It’s probably one of the best conferences that I’ve attended."
The CFA Summer Board Meeting and Roundtable is an annual gathering designed to tackle pressing ag policy issues and foster cross-sector collaboration. The 2025 edition marks another step in strengthening provincial and national partnerships around farming and food security.
- with files from Mike Blume
Sign up to get the latest local news headlines delivered directly to your inbox every afternoon.
Send your news tips, story ideas, pictures, and videos to news@portageonline.com.
PortageOnline encourages you to get your news directly from your trusted source by bookmarking this page and downloading the PortageOnline app.