The newly-formed Manitoba Crop Alliance has acquired its formal designation from the Manitoba authorities and introduced its management team, clearing the trail for the multi-commodity group to start working and gathering levies starting on August 1, 2020.
The group, shaped via the amalgamation of 5 provincial commodity associations, has acquired approval below The Agricultural Producers’ Organization Funding Act to gather necessary refundable check-offs from all gross sales of wheat (spring and winter), barley, sunflowers, corn, and flax in Manitoba.
“It is an exciting hurdle to clear as we move towards Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA) becoming operational August 1, 2020,” says Doug Martin, secretary of MCA’s interim board, in a information launch distributed July 6. “We extend our gratitude to the Manitoba Farm Products Marketing Council and Manitoba Agriculture and Rural Development for their guidance and support throughout the process.”
The check-off quantities for every crop would be the similar as previous to the merger, with 86 per cent of MCA’s complete price range going to 3 essential areas: analysis and manufacturing, market entry and improvement, and communication and advocacy initiatives.
Pam de Rocquigny
MCA introduced its management team on Monday, which will likely be based mostly in Carman, Man.
Pam de Rocquigny, who presently serves as the overall supervisor of the Manitoba Corn Growers Association and the Manitoba Wheat and Barley Growers Association, will likely be MCA’s chief govt officer. Darcelle Graham, the longtime govt director of the National Sunflower Association of Canada, and extra lately, additionally the manager director of Winter Cereals Manitoba, will function chief working officer.
“In addition to their experience and dedication serving Manitoba farmers, Pam and Darcelle each bring a passion for agriculture, strong leadership and management skills to Manitoba Crop Alliance. MCA’s board of directors and crop committees look forward to continuing to work with them in their new roles,” says Robert Misko, MCA’s vice-chair.
Darcelle Graham
The group additionally unveiled its new emblem (pictured), developed by Winnipeg-based advertising and marketing company Think Shift.
“The shield speaks to the strength and stability that comes from the word alliance,” explains chair Fred Greig. “Communication with membership and industry stakeholders is a key mandate for the Manitoba Crop Alliance. We look forward to continuing to share the other communication efforts that have been developed for farmer members in August.”