Grain Growers of Canada elects new executive

Alberta Grains chair Tara Sawyer has been elected chair of the Grain Growers of Canada.

“Her dedication to advocating for farmers and her deep understanding of association governance will help guide the organization as it continues to address the challenges and opportunities facing producers,” GGC said in a news release today.

Sawyer, a farmer from Acme, Alberta, is the first woman to hold the role, GGC said.

Scott Hepworth, a farmer from Assiniboia, Sask., and a director with the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, was elected first vice chair. Sally Parsonage, a grain producer from Baldur, Manitoba and the secretary of Manitoba Crop Alliance, joins the executive as Second Vice Chair.

“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,” said Kyle Larkin, Executive Director of GGC.

Andre Harpe is the outgoing chair. William van Tassel and Brendan Phillips were first and second vice chair, respectively.