POGA elects Bott, Ralph as co-presidents

The Prairie Oat Growers Association (POGA) has elected Ambrely Ralph and Greg Bott as co-presidents, the organization announced today.

This is the first time POGA has had co-presidents. Ralph is also the first president elected from Saskatchewan.

“We have two very capable individuals representing different regions. As a national commission, we span diverse crop rotations, soil types, and climates, and these individuals bring varied experiences and personalities to the role,” a spokesperson for POGA said in an emailed statement.

Ambrely Ralph farms east of Aborfield, Sask., with husband Garett and two children, POGA said in a news release. She is past chair of SaskOats.

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Greg Bott farms with his parents near Eckville, Alta. He has extensive education in commerce, economics, and human rights law, and he recently completed a PhD in nonprofit leadership and governance.

“I am honored to be a Co-President alongside Greg, and am also very grateful for the opportunity to work alongside such a dedicated and knowledgeable team of directors and staff,” Ralph said in the news release. “I look forward to contributing to the growth of our oat farming community.”

Bott thanked outgoing president Brad Boettger for his leadership.

POGA said having co-presidents will allow them to distribute the responsibilities between two people while leveraging two different skill sets. Ralph and Bott will also be able to support each other to provide a stronger leadership presence while “maintaining momentum for key initiatives,” the spokesperson said.