A grain farmer from Acme, Alberta has been elected as the new chair of Grain Growers of Canada (GGC).
Tara Sawyer, who is also the Chair of Alberta Grains, is the first woman to take over the role of chair for Grain Growers of Canada.
Joining her are Scott Hepworth, a grain grower from Assiniboia, Saskatchewan and a Director of the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, as First Vice Chair and Sally Parsonage, a grain producer from Baldur, Manitoba and the Secretary of Manitoba Crop Alliance, joins the executive as Second Vice Chair.
“We are excited to work under the guidance of this new executive, whose leadership and vision will help advance the priorities of Canada’s grain farmers,” said Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of GGC. “With Tara Sawyer, Scott Hepworth, and Sally Parsonage at the helm, GGC is well-positioned to address critical issues in 2025 and beyond, such as advocating for fair tax policies, advancing trade opportunities, and securing reliable transportation networks.”
Sawyer commented on being the first woman to hold the role of chair.
"I think it's important to highlight the fact that they didn't elect me because of my gender. I have great respect for the board and we look at each other for our skills set more than our diversity."
Some of the issues that will be top of mind for the organization in the new year include supply chain disruptions, the CUSMA review, Bill C-282, Bill C-234, and carbon tax increases.