When people think of mediation, family disputes are often the first thing that comes to mind. While Grasslands Mediation is well known for helping families navigate conflict, its services extend far beyond that. From farms to factories, the Swift Current-based practice provides tailored support to workplaces and agricultural families across Saskatchewan.
“We want people to know we’re not just here for family disputes,” says senior mediator Ray Friesen, who founded the practice in 2006. “Conflict is inevitable, whether it’s on the job site or on the family farm. How you handle it will determine whether it’s destructive or whether it leads to better understanding.”
Building stronger workplaces
In any organization, conflict can simmer between co-workers, between employees and management, or even within leadership teams. While many businesses rely on HR to step in, Friesen notes that employees are often hesitant to be fully open with someone connected to the company.
“That’s where we come in,” he says. “As an outside, neutral party, we provide a confidential space for people to talk about what’s really going on.”
Grasslands Mediation offers not only direct mediation but also workplace training that equips staff and managers with practical communication tools. Mediator Kaitlin Thomson explains that being proactive makes a difference: “When people are working well together, your whole business thrives. We help strengthen team culture, reduce turnover, and build healthier communication before issues become serious.”
A unique feature is Grasslands’ retainer service, which allows employees at any level to confidentially access mediation advice. If a conflict requires more attention, the mediators can step in… always with the employee’s permission.
“Conflict doesn’t have to be bad,” Friesen adds. “Different ideas can either create chaos or lead to creative solutions. We help people turn those differences into strengths.”
Facilitating tough farm conversations
Farming families know that running an operation together isn’t just about managing land and livestock- it’s also about managing relationships. Succession planning, shared decision-making, and long-standing family dynamics can make conversations complicated.
“On farms, the emotional side is often bigger than the financial side,” says Thomson, who grew up in Swift Current, earned a degree in agricultural biology, and is married to a farmer. “We provide a neutral structure for difficult conversations so families don’t have to wait until things boil over.”
Friesen, who grew up on a mixed farm in Manitoba, emphasizes the importance of using the term facilitation. “Families may say, ‘We’re not in conflict, we don’t need a mediator,’” he explains. “But facilitation helps ensure that everyone is heard, especially during succession planning. It’s about keeping the farm and the family strong.”
Whether addressing disputes over land, shared equipment, or the next generation’s role in the operation, Grasslands Mediation provides space for constructive dialogue. “Clients often tell us they haven’t had such a productive conversation in 15 or 20 years,” Thomson says. “Sometimes just having someone in the room helps keep everyone focused and respectful.”
A trusted, confidential process
Both mediators stress that confidentiality is at the core of their work. Sessions are always private, and free consultations are available so families and organizations can explore whether the process is a good fit.
Grasslands Mediation offers in-person sessions in Swift Current and virtual services across Saskatchewan. In addition to family, farm, and workplace mediation, their services include civil and commercial disputes, community and church facilitation, and victim/offender mediation.
“At the end of the day,” says Friesen, “our goal is to empower people to work through conflict in a way that preserves relationships and strengthens futures.”
Grasslands Mediation is located at 315 – 12 Cheadle St. W., Swift Current. Call 306-773-5063 or book a free consultation on their website.