4 | Advancing Seed in Alberta Messages WARD OATWAY GREETINGS EVERYONE. I hope you had a restful holiday and winter season. I know that 2019 will be an eventful year, and one that promises to be filled with important decisions for you, our industry, and our country. Speaking of decisions, this is such a critical time. What we decide now will set the tone for our year in the field. When I am faced with the choices that will determine what we grow and how our yields will perform, I like to have the best tools around me. That is why I am glad you are reading this Alberta Seed Guide. In the following pages, you will read industry-first details on how new varieties have performed in compiled regional variety trials. You will also have access to the latest and greatest agronomic traits that are now available. Think of this guide as your toolbox to unlocking the potential of your farm. As fellow Alberta Seed Growers, we are very proud to be part of bringing this guide to your mailboxes. One of the most important aspects of the Alberta Seed Growers association is the role we play in providing top quality seed for the best agricultural industry in the world. In order to keep providing this seed, we need to attract investment and make sure that we remain competitive globally. This has been the chief reason for our Seed Synergy discussions and consultations that have continued over these past months. Our primary goal is to achieve a balanced investment for the future of our seed system. This is the way in which we will all succeed. I am confident that we are laying groundwork for a sustainable seed system where we can all benefit. This means, one that encourages investment while recognizing that varietal development is driven by the market and demands of producers. As we continue these consultations, I would encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter at seedalberta.ca to learn more and stay on top of the latest developments. To wrap up, I want to say that I have really enjoyed my time as president of this great organization. As I finish my term, I have to say that I have never been more confident about where we are headed. Everywhere I go, I am so inspired by how engaged our growers are and what they envision for the future of this industry. Thank you for your support. Don’t be a stranger! Regards, Ward Oatway President Alberta Seed Growers