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Hello SeCan Members, Your SeCan Board of Directors gathered in Beloeil, Quebec on March 11 and 12 to meet with our partners at CEROM, a non-profit plant breeding entity focusing on cereals and oilseeds. We had discussions on the path forward for CEROM and opportunities to mitigate cuts to funding within the AAFC research ecosystem. In addition to meeting with CEROM, the Board spent considerable time evaluating SeCan’s future role in addressing the broader challenges posed by AAFC’s announced cuts to research stations and staff. The role of SeCan will vary greatly across the country, depending on crop type and region, but in all cases will require a coordinated effort with producers and researchers. After reviewing the 2025 financial statements, the Board agreed it was prudent to allocate 100% of the operating surplus to the Restricted Research Fund. This decision strengthens SeCan’s ability to support essential breeding initiatives and ensures we continue investing in the innovations that drive member success. With Western Director Peter Entz retiring, the Board appointed Amanda Ellis from Ellis Seeds in Wawanesa Manitoba to complete his term. Welcome Amanda! The new video series “On the Brink” supported by SeCan and other partners across the sector has launched in support of plant breeding and its contribution to Canadian agriculture. We encourage you to watch and share the episodes over the next few months. Finally, please mark your calendar for SeCan’s AGM – scheduled for June 24 at 10 am eastern. As always, contact us with questions or comments. Wishing you a successful and safe spring season!
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