Farming For Tomorrow is delivered to 79,873 farm and agribusiness addresses every second month. The areas of distribution include Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and the Peace region of B.C.
The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the content of any advertisement, and all representations of warranties made in such advertisements are those of the advertiser and not of the publisher. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, in all or in part, without the written permission of the publisher. Canadian Publications mail sales product agreement no. 41126516.
Kevin Hursh, P.Ag.
Kevin Hursh is one of the country’s leading agricultural commentators. He is an agrologist, journalist and farmer. Kevin and his wife Marlene run Hursh Consulting & Communications based in Saskatoon. They also own and operate a farm near Cabri in southwest Saskatchewan growing a wide variety of crops. Kevin writes regular columns for farm publications and can often be heard on Saskatchewan radio stations. In 2021, Kevin received a Distinguished Agrologist Award from the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists. In 2023, he was inducted into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame.
X: @KevinHursh1
Timing Can
Make You a Hero or a Zero
I was at a social event with my wife when a fellow I’d met only once or twice sat down at our table to tell me about his retirement from the farm. It got me thinking about how timing is critical when it comes to major farming decisions.
With no kids interested in taking over the farm, this fellow had a recent auction sale, and despite his equipment being older and smaller than what most people want, he got a better-thanexpected return.
He has a small land base by today’s standards, but he rented it out for more than $150 an acre. Rents are much lower than that in some regions, but higher in others.
This farm transition happened last October before grain prices did their slow grind lower. He knows he’s going to miss farming, but he and his wife are sitting rather comfortably from a financial point of view.
If one could predict the future of land prices, it would be easy to determine whether or not this retired farmer would be better to sell his land or keep renting it. People who sold out 10 or 20 years ago missed out on huge land value increases, but that’s not guaranteed to continue.
On the other side of the equation, those who are starting out or expanding their operations face the flip side of the timing question.
If you hearken back to the mid-’70s, it was a boom time for the Prairie grain industry. By the late ’70s and early ’80s, land values had increased and the expectation was for a continuance of the good times.
Instead, drought hit many areas, interest rates skyrocketed and grain prices slumped. Land prices dropped and equity eroded. Many farms with significant debt loads did not survive. When you owe more on land than it’s worth, might as well let the lender take it over.
Financial returns were often tight in the ’90s and early 2000s, but land prices edged upwards. Those who survived the hard times were often cautious in their expansion plans.
Around 2008, grain farming started to become more lucrative. Those who threw caution to the wind and bought all the land possible have done very well. Land always seemed too expensive at the time, but it just continues to increase in value.
The timing has been right for grain farm expansion for many years now. Will it continue? That’s the multibillion-dollar question. Grain farm economics certainly appear difficult for 2026. Grain, oilseed, pulse and special crop prices are disappointing while farm input costs remain comparatively high. How long and deep will the profitability decline be?
Meanwhile, the timing looks good for any cow-calf producers expanding their operations in recent years. Calf prices in the fall of 2025 were record high and many predictions have good times in the beef sector continuing for the foreseeable future.
The beef sector has been a poor cousin to crops for a long time, so many cattle producers are wary about how the future will unfold. As well, the good times have increased the value of breeding stock, so expanding now is much more expensive than a couple of years ago.
Again, timing matters.
Rapid expansion involving high debt leverage can make you look like a hero or a zero depending on how the future unfolds. However, the overly cautious route of standing still and taking limited risk isn’t a good formula for longterm viability.
Rapid expansion involving high debt leverage can make you look like a hero or a zero depending on how the future unfolds. However, the overly cautious route of standing still and taking limited risk isn’t a good formula for long-term viability.
My opinion, for what it’s worth, is that measured, strategic expansion is the safe and responsible route because timing might work for or against you.
TOGETHER, WE ARE INSPIRING A FUTURE WITHOUT WASTE
As stewards of the land, Albertans know the value of using every resource wisely. We’re proud to support communities across the province by giving new life to old materials—from used oil and tires to electronics and paint.
Together, we’ve kept over 275,404 tonnes of electronics, 39.07 million litres of paint, 154.5 million tires, and 2.4 billion litres of used oil out of land lls.
Now, with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), an expanded electronics recycling program, and new initiatives exploring the recycling of solar PV, EV batteries, and wind turbine electrical components, Alberta is taking bold steps to reduce waste, protect valuable resources, and keep our land clean and productive for future generations.
Learn more about recycling at albertarecycling.ca INSPIRING A FUTURE
BY
ANGELA LOVELL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS YAUCK PHOTOGRAPHY
Rod Lanier is grateful that his grandfather, Tom, got off the train 12 miles south of Lethbridge in 1911, and established his farm on land with highly productive soils and a favourable climate. Along with some innovation and strategic planning, those factors have helped ensure the growth and success of NeverIdle Farms, which today boasts 2,400 acres of diversified crops and two thriving valueadded businesses.
Ike Lanier, Rod’s father, was one of the first farmers in Western Canada to adopt zero-till approximately 35 years ago, and since starting the transition process in 1990, Rod has followed the tradition of seeking opportunities to improve the productivity, profitability and sustainability of the farm.
For the Laniers, it all started with the goal of getting the most value out of every acre. When some crops responded better to no-till than others, Rod and his dad began experimenting with different rotations to find what provided the most financial value, while at the same time maintaining the health and productivity of their land.
“I chose to expand the revenue-generating potential of NeverIdle Farms by value adding rather than buying more land,” Rod Lanier says. “We came up with the four crops we are currently growing, which are durum wheat, lentils, flax and hemp. It was a successful rotation that suited our no-till system and was financially rewarding as I began to take over the farm.”
But as Lanier explored the possibilities for each of these four crops, he came across the concept of terroir – a term referring to flavour characteristics imparted in a crop through unique environmental and farming practices. After Lanier’s durum wheat flour won some taste tests, he learned it had a distinctive flavour thanks to being grown in a cold climate on no-till soils. So, Lanier explored the possibility of producing semolina flour for pasta production from his own wheat.
Lanier’s neighbour, Jason Saunders, was also interested in exploring new opportunities for his own high-quality durum. The two joined forces and were fortunate to partner with a local durum mill that could provide separate storage bins for their production, allowing them to sell their flour at a premium as an identity preserved (IP) product.
The final piece of the durum project fell into place when the wheat board was dissolved, and Lanier was able to find a U.S. partner, Shepherd’s Grain, for direct exportation. Today, NeverIdle Farms and Saunders Farms directly export all their combined durum production to the U.S.
“We have lots of customers and it’s been very rewarding both seeing how the customers like our IP semolina, as well as the financial benefits of eliminating several middlemen,” Lanier says.
Turning negatives into positives
Of course, there have been some challenges along the way and a few mistakes, including issues with pricing in durum’s extremely volatile market. But as with most knowledgebuilding experiences, a negative can often become a positive in the end.
“One of our pricing issues had us far underselling into the market, but we had guaranteed our customers a price, so even though it was under the market, we stuck with it, fulfilled their orders, and then they stayed with us,” Lanier says. “It has been rewarding since, and we learned from that mistake not to panic and to do what we said we would do.”
Sparking interest in the next generation
Lanier’s wife, Lori, also works part time on the farm, and while three of their children are pursuing other careers, their youngest son, 22-year-old Quinn, comes back to farm between his studies at the University of New Brunswick,
where he is completing a psychology degree. But his interest in the farm has been growing.
“It will be my job to create the opportunity for him if his interest continues and he thoroughly understands how much hard work and long hours farming takes,” Lanier says.
Towards that end, Lanier recently added another enterprise to the farm – a hemp decortication plant for separating out the different components of the plant: seed, fibre and hurds.
“We knew that if we just sold a bale of hemp without separating it, it was worth $100 per metric ton, but separating it tripled the value of the individual products,” Lanier says. “Once separated, the values of the different hemp products, much like the durum, completely changed the financial rewards available to us.”
There’s still a lot of work to be done in finding markets and value for the different hemp products. Lanier is working with an oil company that has figured out how to change hemp oil into an epoxy, with hurds showing a lot of potential as an insulation material.
“It’s coming along, but there are a lot of pieces,” Lanier says. “At the moment, the hemp project needs more decisions and
NeverIdle Farms boasts 2,400 acres of diversified crops and two thriving value-added businesses.
“One of our pricing issues had us far underselling into the market, but we had guaranteed our customers a price, so even though it was under the market, we stuck with it, fulfilled their orders, and then they stayed with us. It has been rewarding since, and we learned from that mistake not to panic and to do what we said we would do.”
- Rod Lanier
some equipment changes, as well as determining which of the hemp products we are going to focus on because there are only so many dollars that the farm can throw at these projects until they start getting payback.”
Although challenges remain to realize the extra value, the hemp project may offer new opportunities for the next generation to pursue.
“The value-added brings a different dimension to the farm that I believe is more enticing for the next generation to stay and develop it,” Lanier says. “I think that may be one of the benefits. Quinn has already started a couple of projects of selling the hemp fibre in a different way as a ground cover product. He has found a business partner to develop it and seems very intrigued by it.”
What it takes to do value-added
Lanier acknowledges he could not have done either of his value-added projects without the help of good partners and mentors who were more than willing to share their expertise.
“We were lucky enough to have great contacts at the Parrish & Heimbecker durum mill here in Lethbridge, and at Shepherd’s Grain, and along with that came exceptional expertise to help us,” Lanier says. “It was about finding the right people to ask and asking them the right questions so that we could make good decisions to move forward.”
While collaborations and partnerships have been key to the farm’s successful foray into value-added, Lanier emphasizes
Rod Lanier currently grows four crops: durum wheat, lentils, flax and hemp.
that each new enterprise requires careful planning and cautious money management.
“It gives more breathing room on the financial end to invest in things without being too tight, but you still have to be careful and not put too many dollars into a project before it starts to look to be a revenue generator,” he says.
It also involves a lot of legwork. “If you are going to start something like this, make sure you enjoy all the extra meetings and travel,” he says. Lanier has supported the marketing of his product by exploring hemp opportunities in Germany and the U.S., which included attending a major pasta show in Las Vegas.
“Travelling last year to pasta customers that could not make up their mind, and telling the story of the farm, that it is third generation, and when they scan our pasta flour bags, they see a picture of my parents sitting in a field of durum wheat, was so rewarding,” he says. “I have been told it is the story that intrigues the buyer, and then they take it home and taste it.”
Keeping an eye on trade
Lanier’s semolina flour is still covered under the CUSMA rules and is currently not subject to U.S. tariffs, but he knows that could change in an instant.
“A few weeks ago, President Trump tariffed Italy on all incoming pasta so he could wake up tomorrow and tariff us as well, but let’s hope not,” he says, adding it would mean some
“We will continue caring for the land. We will continue to improve and expand the value-added projects and create an opportunity for the next generation that has expressed interest in that part of the farm.” - Rod Lanier
tough decisions for the farm. “Whether our American customers can survive a tariff of a certain amount, or whether we would have to help them pay the tariff and avoid them going to an American durum supplier [is a big question].”
But Lanier is not given to worrying about things he can’t control and continues to focus on ways to improve and move the farm forward.
“We will continue caring for the land,” he says. “We will continue to improve and expand the value-added projects and create an opportunity for the next generation that has expressed interest in that part of the farm.”
Rod Lanier is proud to share the story of the thirdgeneration farm, which he believes has the potential to intrigue buyers.
WELCOME TO AG EXPO 2026 EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
Ag Expo presented by Vanee Farm Centre and the North American Seed Fair powered by Seed World Canada is a Lethbridge tradition that brings the agriculture industry together, and we are pleased to once again welcome you to the Lethbridge Trade & Convention Centre for this annual showcase.
While the industry faced some challenges over the past year, from tariffs to variable moisture levels across the prairies, ultimately, crop production was generally strong in 2025, with major crops including wheat and canola reaching near-record levels. This is a positive development for the industry and we look forward to even more good news to come in the year ahead.
Ag Expo is once again a sold-out show, with around 300 exhibitors attending from across Canada, the United States, and international borders. We are seeing new exhibitors, new technologies and new innovations that are pushing our industry forward. These modernisations make the agricultural community more sustainable, more efficient and more profitable as our industry adapts to technological and environmental changes.
At this year’s show, you can expect a floor plan that emphasizes excellent guest traffic flow, new networking events and spaces such as the Crop Aid Nutrition Lounge where exhibitors and guests can engage in a more relaxed atmosphere, a cleaner and improved footprint for Double C Agco Machinery Row in the south parking lot, the new Thunderbars presented by Thunderstruck Ag Equipment where delicious refreshments are just steps away from the exhibitors, and more event sponsorship and partners than ever before. We thank you all for your support!
At the heart of southern Alberta’s agriculture community, Ag Expo delivers an exciting showcase of the ideas and technologies shaping the future of farming. The event gathers cutting-edge agricultural solutions from around the world, offering handson access to the newest equipment, products, and innovations. From machinery and irrigation to livestock supplies, crop inputs, and seed, Ag Expo is where producers connect, trade, invest and come together in one dynamic setting.
We are pleased to welcome farmers, producers, manufacturers, sales people and everyone associated with the industry to Lethbridge. Enjoy your time in Alberta as we celebrate the business of agriculture!
SUZANNE
EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
FOOD & BEVERAGE
ADMISSION PRICE
Available online and on-site from Feb. 24 - 27, 2026.
WHAT’S ON
EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
FCC SUPPORTS LOCAL YOUTH
FEB. 25 - 27 | FREE ADMISSION THANKS TO FCC
Farm Credit Canada is showing its support for the future of agriculture by offering complimentary admission for students and youth.
All children aged 11 and under are free at all times, while all 4-H youth, Lethbridge Polytechnic and University of Lethbridge students can get in free by showing valid ID.
This initiative supports FCC’s commitment to Canadian youth in agriculture through a variety of programs and initiatives that focus on skill-building, leadership, and bringing new talent and technology into the industry.
AGRICULTURE FOR LIFE (AG FOR LIFE) AND AG EXPO ARE EXCITED TO PRESENT THE THINKAG CAREER DISCOVERY EXPO
FEB. 27 | 9 AM - 5 PM
Register your students for the 2026 thinkAG Career Discovery Expo!
This dynamic, hands-on career exploration event gives students a real look at the wide range of opportunities in today’s agriculture and food sectors. From high-tech innovations to environmental science, animal care, business, and trades, students will see how agriculture connects to the skills and interests they already have. It’s interactive, engaging, and built to spark future career curiosity.
EVENT DETAILS
• Date: Friday, Feb. 27, 2026.
• Location: Lethbridge Trade & Convention Centre.
• Who: Grade 8–12 students.
• Cost: Free event + bussing subsidies. Email info@agricultureforlife.ca to learn more. Space is limited.
generation to pick up the torch and dive into this industry of
SEED FAIR POWERED BY SEED WORLD CANADA
A tradition with roots more than a century deep, the North American Seed Fair powered by Seed World Canada is a staple of Ag Expo and one of Western Canada’s longest-running and last remaining seed showcases. Each year, dozens of samples are collected, judged and displayed, showcasing over 25 classes of Pedigreed Seed, Open Classes, and Junior Classes. Entries highlight the latest advancements in seed genetics, crop development, and agronomic innovation.
Connecting breeders, growers, agronomists, and suppliers from across the continent, the fair features a wide range
of seed varieties, including cereals, pulses, oilseeds, forages, and specialty crops, highlighting the diversity and strength of modern agriculture. Exhibitors share new products, research, and practical solutions designed to help producers improve yields, manage risk, and adapt to evolving growing conditions.
Check out the North American Seed Fair, located in the Real Estate Centre Lobby of the Lethbridge Trade & Convention Centre to see the impressive displays and engage directly with the seed developers and industry experts who are growing the seed industry.
Flaman
FMC
Forma
Fort
Forty
Frontlink
Gaber
Glass-Pac
Global
GMS
Goldridge
Goodon
Gowan
Graham
Grand
GreatWest
Green
Green
H-Bar
HALO
Hire
Hitch
Honey
Hotsy
Hutton
HyperAg
EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
Farmers
Farming
Farm
Finning
Firefly
Flaman
FMC
Forma
Fort
Forty
Frontlink
Gaber
Genesis
Glacier
Glass-Pac
Global Commodities Traders Inc.
GMS Mechanical & Equipment Ltd.
Goldridge Industries Inc.
Goodon Industries Ltd.
Gowan
Graham Seed Treating Systems
Grand Forks Concrete
GreatWest Kenworth
Green Aero Tech
Green Prairie International
HALO
Hire
Hitch N Go Inc.
Holmes Ecowater
Honey
Hotsy
Hutton Livestock Equipment
HyperAg Dynamics
EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
EXHIBITOR LIST ALPHABETICAL
#
20/20 Seed Labs Inc. S14
A
Accurate/Western Scale ...................... 601
AcuFast 35
Agracity Crop and Nutrition Ltd. 469
Agrai Dairy Mart .................................. 643
Agri Fit Solutions 144
Agri-Flow Equipment & Supply 905
Agri-King Inc./Silo-King Forage and Hay Treatment .................................... 821
Agri-Novatex Canada Ltd. 687
AgroPlus Inc. 422
AgSafe Alberta S57
AgTek360 30
Airguard Inc. 913
Alberta AG Centre 339
Alberta Grains ..................................... S08
Alberta Pulse Growers S16
Alpine 466
Ample Ag Solutions ............................ 480
Agri-King Inc./Silo-King Forage and Hay Treatment 821
Annelida Soil Solutions S38
Boss Feeds 462
Canadian Agri-Blend Inc. 19
Cleanfarms 25
Penergetic Canada 658
Prairie Skies Alfalfa Ltd. 820
Preventive Maintenance Inc. 444
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers 670
Rocking Horse Industries Ltd. 453
Rusty Ag 673
South Country Co-op Ltd. 306
GPS/DRONES
AgTek360 30
Flaman Group of Companies 348,O2
Gaber Distributors 565
Green Aero Tech S30
H-Bar Rock Co. S25
LandView Drones 634
Outback Guidance 474
Sky Drones Inc. O5,S42
Treadstone Machinery Ltd. 439
West Wind Airspray S52
GRAIN STORAGE & HANDLING
Agri-Novatex Canada Ltd. 687
Bruder Grain 615
Bunge 802
Carbon Controls Ltd. S54
Cleanfarms 25
Clews Management 604
Columbia Grain International S73
Columbia Seed Co Ltd. S26
CORR Grain Systems Inc. 559
EQUS 911
Flaman Group of Companies 348,O2
Goodon Industries Ltd. 150
Jayco Builders Inc. 26
JGL Commodities 428
JPR Industries 23
Keystone Concrete Ltd. 519
Meridian Manufacturing Inc. 338,SP106
MJ Enterprises 668
Neeralta Manufacturing 360
Ocean Trailer 372
Optimum Manufacturing 535
Plastruct Polyzone 675
Richardson Pioneer 315
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers 670
Rusty Ag 673
South Country Co-op Ltd. 306
Scale Service 804
HAYING & HARVESTING
Agri-Novatex Canada Ltd. 687 Alberta AG Centre 339
Feeds 462
Finning
Firefly
Flaman
FMC
Forma
Fort
Forty
Frontlink
Gaber
Genesis
Glacier
Glas
Glass-Pac Canada
Global Commodities Traders Inc.
GMS Mechanical & Equipment Ltd.
Goldridge Industries Inc.
Goodon Industries Ltd.
Gowan
Graham Seed Treating Systems
Grand Forks Concrete
GreatWest Kenworth
Green
Green
HALO
Hire
Honey
Hotsy
Hutton Livestock Equipment Ltd.
HyperAg Dynamics
EXHIBITOR LIST CATEGORY
Nieboer Farm Supplies 159
One Time Fencing 36
Princess Auto O10
Puroxi Alberta Inc. 609
RDAR S60
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers 670
Rocking Horse Industries Ltd. 453
Rusty Ag 673
Shimek Industries 676
South Country Co-op Ltd. 306
Southern Irrigation 810
Standard Scale Service 804
UFA Co-operative 483
MATERIAL HANDLING
Accurate/Western Scale 601
Bos Agri Sales 174
Brandt Tractor Ltd. 380
Bruder Grain 615
Chinook Country Pressure Washers Ltd. 112
Chinook Wood Products Ltd. S24
Cooper Equipment Rentals 410
Dutchie Dirt-Moving Ltd. 583
Enviro-Smart Inc. S64
Flaman Group of Companies 348,O2
Fort Garry Industries 353
Glacier Equipment 443
Goldridge Industries Inc. 461
H-Bar Rock Co. S25
Hire Standard 13
ICC Distribution Group 152
Jepson Petroleum 547
JPR Industries 23
JT Equipment Corp 610
Manulift 191,SP105
Millennium Genetics 21 Ltd. 814
Noble Equipment 147
PGS Equipment Ltd. 300,O4
Plastruct Polyzone 675
Princess Auto O10
Shimek Industries 676
Standard Scale Service 804
Tolsma Canada 464
Treadstone Machinery Ltd. 439
Vantage Trailer Sales F3,N102
OTHER
Agrai Dairy Mart 643
Agri Fit Solutions 144
AgSafe Alberta S57
AgTek360 30
Alberta Grains S08
Alpine 466
Arm River Agro F4
Badlands Towing & Recovery 644,N104
Banditos Incorporated 467
Bayer Crop Science 452
B-Hyve Ag 514
Bio-Agtive Emissions Farming inc 511
Boehringer-Ingelhelm Animal
Health Canada Inc. S55
Borex HDD O7
Brandt Tractor Ltd. 380
Bunge 802
Canadian Cattle Identification Agency S49
Canadian Foodgrains Bank S72
Canadian Grain Commission S21
CAP Solar Pumps Ltd. 403
CBM Lighting 620
Chin Ridge Seeds 916
Chinook Country Pressure
Washers Ltd. 112
Chinook Farm Innovations Inc. 529
Chinook Wood Products Ltd. S24
Cleanfarms 25
CLHbid.com 920
College Ford Lincoln F5
Columbia Grain International S73
Cooper Equipment Rentals 410
Dairy Lane Systems 322
D-Com Energy Solutions 184
Decisive Farming by TELUS
Agriculture 627
Dennis’ Dirtworx Ltd. 347
Diamond Hoof Care Ltd. 681
Dieselr Corp. S66
Double R Value Insulation 614
Down to Earth Labs 188
Dutchie Dirt-Moving Ltd. 583
Energy Smart Canada Ltd. 33
Enriched Water 622
Enviro-Smart Inc. S64
Evans HD 429,SP104
Evolution Wheel S67
Farmers’ Advocate Office, Government of Alberta S50
Farming Smarter S37
Firefly Solar Inc. 806
Flaman Group of Companies 348,O2
Glacier Equipment 443
Global Commodities Traders Inc. S22
GreatWest Kenworth 365
H-Bar Rock Co. S25
HALO Air Ambulance S72
Hire Standard 13
Holmes Ecowater 521
Hotsy of Southern Alberta 652
I-Beam Irrigation 524
Interlake Resources Inc. 819
Jaylor 312
Jepson Petroleum 547
Johnston’s Grain Ltd. 902
JT Equipment Corp 610
LA Wireless - Authorized Dealer of Xplore Inc. S71
Lethbridge & District Ag Society F1
Lethbridge County Agricultural Service Board 10
Lethbridge Door Systems Inc. S31
Lethbridge Polytechnic 6
Lethbridge Truck Equipment (LTE) 361
Linkage Ag Solutions 517
M & K Home Sales 34
Manulift 191,SP105
Market Place Commodities 626
Maverick Concrete Ltd. 160
Maximum H2O 683
Mid-West Pump (90) Ltd. 432
Millennium Genetics 21 Ltd. 814
NewWay Irrigation/Kubota 433
Ocean Trailer 372
One Time Fencing 36
Overweg Trucking Ltd. 345
Paramoria Agri-Science Inc S74
Penergetic Canada 658
Plants Dig Soil 11
Porter Tanner O6
Power Fuelz S63
Princess Auto O10
Project Protein 3
Puroxi Alberta Inc. 609
Rayglen Commodities Inc. S09
RDAR S60
Real Estate Centre 816
Redfern Enterprises Ltd. 22
RediRain 4
Ridgeline Contracting Ltd. 146
RPH Irrigation Services Ltd. 646
Sandman Hotel Group 9
Seed World Canada F6
Simplot Grower Solutions 908
Solar Seeker O3
South Country Co-op Ltd. 306
South Country Doors 686
Southern Irrigation 810
Southern Scale Company Inc. 625
STARS S72
Strait Way Ltd. 166
SureBond Safe Floors 128
Taber Diesel Services Ltd. 800
TC Energy S47
Team Auctions/Sekura Auctions 27
The Containment Answer 518
The Gear Centre/Pat’s Driveline 629
Tollestrup Construction 162
Tolsma Canada 464
TruGreen Metal Recycling 515
UFA Co-operative 483
Vandenberg Hay Farms Ltd. 639
WEED-IT Canada 472
Western Ag Professional AgronomyS07
Western Generator 645
Western Solar Inc. 164
Wind & Sun Protection 172
Witdouck Farms Seed and Pollination 102
SECURITY & MONITORING
CAP Solar Pumps Ltd. 403
Carbon Controls Ltd. S54
Clews Management 604
Flaman Group of Companies 348,O2
LA Wireless - Authorized Dealer of Xplore Inc. S71
MJ Enterprises 668
RDAR S60
SEED
20/20 Seed Labs Inc. S14
Agroplus Inc. 422
Alberta Grains S08
Alberta Pulse Growers S16
Annelida Soil Solutions S38
Arjazon Seed Trading Ltd. S18
BASF 301
Bayer Crop Science 452
BrettYoung Seeds Limited S17
Brummelhuis Seeds S04
Chin Ridge Seeds 916
Cleanfarms 25
Columbia Grain International S73
DeVry Forages S48
DLF Canada Inc. 680
Double C AgCo 139,N103,O1
DSV Northstar 12
Fabian Seed Farms Inc. 425
Forty Mile Turf Seed Ltd. S12
Global Commodities Traders Inc. S22
Graham Seed Treating Systems 571
Imperial Seed S35
JGL Commodities 428
K3 Seeds 482
Maximum H2O 683
Mercer Seeds Ltd. 29
Northstar Genetics S46
Nutrien Ag Solutions F2
Ocean Trailer 372
Parrish & Heimbecker, Ltd. 7
Performance Seed S06
Pioneer Hi-Bred Canada Company 501
Preventive Maintenance Inc. 444
PRIDE Seeds S01
Quattro Seeds S10
Rayglen Commodities Inc. S09 RDAR S60
Richardson Pioneer 315
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers 670
SeCan S15
Seed Check Technologies Inc. S03
SeedNet Inc. S05
Simplot Grower Solutions 908
South Country Co-op Ltd. 306 Stamp Seeds 8 Willms Seeds Ltd. S44
Witdouck Farms Seed and Pollination 102
TILLAGE & SEEDING
Agri-Flow Equipment & Supply 905 Airguard Inc. 913 Alberta AG Centre 339 Atom-Jet Industries 608 Bos Agri Sales 174 Bourgault
Farm Credit Canada
Finning
Firefly Solar Inc.
Flaman Group of Companies
FMC Canada
Forma
Fort Garry Industries
Forty Mile Turf Seed Ltd.
Frontlink Inc. - West Ag Distributors
G
Gaber Distributors
GEN Manufacturing Ltd.
Genesis Fertilizers
Glacier
Glas
Glass-Pac Canada
Global Commodities Traders Inc.
GMS Mechanical & Equipment Ltd.
Goldridge Industries Inc.
Goodon Industries Ltd.
Gowan Canada
Graham Seed Treating Systems
Grand Forks Concrete
GreatWest Kenworth
Green Aero Tech
Green Prairie International
H-Bar Rock Co.
HALO
Hire Standard
Hitch N Go Inc.
Holmes Ecowater
Honey Bee Manufacturing Ltd.
Hotsy
Hutton Livestock Equipment Ltd.
HyperAg Dynamics
EVERY BOOT TELLS A STORY
Farming and ranching are part of an incredibly diverse and demanding industry filled with some of the most hardworking and resilient people. At AFSC, we want to celebrate the agriculture industry by sharing stories of the drive, dedication and determination of Alberta producers.
SHOW US YOUR BOOTS. TELL US YOUR STORY.
AFSC.ca/boots
Matters
BUILDING THE INFRASTRUCTURE THAT SUPPORTS FARMING
FOR TOMORROW
TRUSTED PRECAST CONCRETE SOLUTIONS FOR MODERN AGRICULTURAL OPERATIONS
Serfas Farms Potato Storage | Lethbridge County, AB
To learn more about us, scan the QR code
A Made-in-Lethbridge Solution
Building a sustainable future for ag and events
By Teresa Zimmer
Southern Alberta has always been rooted in agriculture. It’s more than an industry. It’s a way of life, a cornerstone of community identity and a driver of economic growth. The City of Lethbridge is doubling down on that legacy while embracing change through a bold restructuring that promises sustainability and vibrancy for decades to come.
Last fall, after months of consultation and planning, the former Lethbridge & District Exhibition (LDE) officially split into two distinct and focused organizations: the Lethbridge & District Agricultural Society (LDAS) and Excite Lethbridge. This strategic move was designed to address financial challenges, sharpen organizational focus and create a model that could inspire other communities across Alberta.
A Turning Point for Lethbridge
The catalyst for change came in 2023 when the newly opened Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre encountered financial turbulence. Emergency funding from the city kept operations afloat, but it was clear that a long-term solution was needed.
“This was a chance for us to look outside the box and
determine what could work better,” says Paul Kingsmith, director of event development for Excite Lethbridge.
“Throughout 2024 and early 2025, we looked at various operating models for sustainability. Ultimately, we realized that creating two focused organizations was the best way forward.”
By mid-2025, the City of Lethbridge and the Province of Alberta agreed that the community would benefit from a dual structure with one entity committed to agriculture advocacy and education, and another dedicated to event development and tourism.
LDAS: Back to Agricultural Roots
Created in 1897, the Lethbridge & District Agricultural Society has a history longer than the province of Alberta. This decision returns the Ag society to its original name with a renewed focus on strengthening the region’s agricultural foundation. Its mandate is to celebrate the industry’s history, advocate for its future and ensure agriculture remains front and centre in community life.
“This takes the Ag society back to its roots and ensures that
“These events, along with community staples like Whoop-Up Days and the Pro Rodeo, are vital opportunities to build agricultural awareness and strengthen the connection between agriculture and the broader community.”
- Paul Kingsmith
there are agriculture-minded people to work with Excite Lethbridge to ensure that agriculture events are put in the spotlight,” says Kingsmith.
The Ag society operates as a community shareholder-based organization, with an elected board of seven directors, including a youth representative, all from various agricultural backgrounds.
“This is a unique and diverse board,” says Kingsmith. “We’re excited to see what they can do with agriculture in this region.”
The first director, Cody McIntosh, embodies the society’s vision. Born and raised in the area, McIntosh grew up on a cattle farm and brings extensive experience in agricultural advocacy, education and event management.
“I’m honoured to step into the role of director with the Lethbridge & District Agricultural Society. Agriculture has always been at the heart of my life, and I’m eager to help the Ag society grow, build new relationships and bring events like Aggie Days back to the region,” says McIntosh.
His first priorities in the new role will be delivering a successful Aggie Days in March and coordinating the society’s presence at Ag Expo in February.
“These events, along with community staples like Whoop-Up Days and the Pro Rodeo, are vital opportunities to build agricultural awareness and strengthen the connection between agriculture and the broader community,” he says. “At the same time, I’ll be working closely with our board to develop a long-term strategy that supports agriculture and increases awareness throughout the region, one that ensures agricultural societies remain strong and sustainable for decades to come.”
Excite Lethbridge: Driving Events and Economic Growth
Excite Lethbridge, a municipally controlled non-profit organization, now oversees the Lethbridge Trade &
Convention Centre, formerly known as the Agri-food Hub & Trade Centre. Its mandate is to attract and produce events that enrich the community and stimulate economic development. Under the leadership of CEO Kim Gallucci, who stepped into the role in October 2025, Excite Lethbridge absorbed the staff of the former LDE and is poised to deliver world-class experiences.
“We have a state-of-the-art convention centre that serves a purpose in bringing in tourism and drives economic growth. The events we host not only boost the economy but also enhance quality of life in southern Alberta, making it a more appealing place to live and work,” says Kingsmith.
From trade shows and conferences to cultural festivals and community celebrations, Excite Lethbridge aims to position the city as a premier destination for events. This focus on tourism and economic development is expected to generate significant spinoff benefits for local businesses, hospitality providers and the broader regional economy.
Collaboration at the Core
The two organizations are not operating in isolation. Collaboration is central to their success. Excite Lethbridge will partner with LDAS to deliver signature agricultural events
“We have a state-of-the-art convention centre that serves a purpose in bringing in tourism and drives economic growth. The events we host not only boost the economy but also enhance quality of life in southern Alberta, making it a more appealing place to live and work.” - Paul Kingsmith
such as Ag Expo, Whoop-Up Days, the Lethbridge & District Pro Rodeo and the Lethbridge Farmers’ Market. LDAS will activate within these events, ensuring agriculture remains front and centre through initiatives like the North American Seed Fair at Ag Expo.
“Agriculture is at the heart of our community. We are an agriculture hub, and it drives our economy and identity. This partnership ensures that agriculture is a priority and is celebrated,” says Kingsmith.
A Model for the Future
The restructuring reflects a “made-in-Lethbridge” solution that could inspire other regions facing similar challenges. By separating financial risk from agricultural programming, the model empowers LDAS to focus on advocacy and education while Excite Lethbridge leverages event-driven economic opportunities.
The City of Lethbridge worked closely with the provincial government to ensure alignment with the Alberta Agricultural Societies Act.
“This is a unique and sustainable model that is different from other ag societies in the province. It takes a lot of the financial risk off the ag society and allows them to get back to focusing on agriculture,” says Kingsmith. “We’re super excited about the future and believe this could be a model for others in similar circumstances.”
Looking Ahead
The benefits extend beyond economics. Events hosted at the Lethbridge Trade & Convention Centre foster community
“It’s a very exciting time for us. We’re looking forward to the community seeing the benefits this can provide now and into the future.”
- Paul Kingsmith
pride, attract tourism and create memorable experiences. Meanwhile, LDAS initiatives strengthen agricultural awareness and engagement, ensuring the next generation understands the industry’s importance.
“It’s a very exciting time for us. We’re looking forward to the community seeing the benefits this can provide now and into the future,” says Kingsmith.
As southern Alberta navigates the evolving landscape of agriculture and tourism, the partnership between LDAS and Excite Lethbridge offers a blueprint for resilience and growth. With a shared commitment to sustainability and community engagement, these organizations are not just responding to challenges, they’re shaping a future where agriculture and experiences thrive together.
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Gowan Canada Introduces Garrison® Liquid EC Herbicide: A New Solution for Weed Resistance
Gowan Canada has announced that the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) has approved the registration of Garrison ® Liquid EC Herbicide for use in Canadian agriculture, marking a significant advancement in the fight against herbicide-resistant weeds.
Garrison ® Liquid EC is a preplant selective herbicide formulated with a dual mode of action: triallate (Group 15) and trifluralin (Group 3). This powerful combination targets problematic and resistant weed species such as wild oats and Persian darnel, which have long challenged growers across the prairies. Its extended residual activity strengthens resistance management strategies and helps crops establish with reduced competition.
Ideal for use in canola, mustard, flax, lentils, and dry peas, Garrison ® Liquid EC is designed for application prior to planting. Farmers can apply it in both fall and spring, creating flexibility in weed control programs to suit regional conditions and crop planning timelines. For even greater effectiveness, it can be tank-mixed with compatible herbicides to broaden the spectrum of weed control.
The benefits of Garrison ® Liquid EC extend beyond effective weed suppression. By minimizing competition early in the growing season, crops gain better access to moisture, light, and nutrients, which are critical for maximizing yield
potential. Its dual-active formulation also helps slow the development of future herbicide resistance, a growing concern in modern agriculture.
This launch reflects Gowan Canada’s commitment to delivering practical, innovative crop protection solutions tailored to Canadian growers’ needs. As a subsidiary of the Gowan Group, Gowan Canada continues to expand its product portfolio with tools that combine scientific advancement with field-proven reliability.
Garrison ® Liquid EC Herbicide will be available for the 2026 spring season, giving farmers time to incorporate it into their integrated weed management practices.
