Six agricultural leaders will be inducted into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame during its 50th anniversary this fall.
This year’s crop represents plant research and development, broadcast journalism, financial management, equipment manufacturing and development, soil nutrient solutions and bison production.
“We are pleased this year to be marking 50 years of celebrating agricultural leaders and innovators, and it is fitting we have such an outstanding group of inductees for the occasion,” said Reed Andrew, president of the hall of fame, which is located at the Western Development Museum in Saskatoon.
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Jim Bessel was instrumental in the establishment of canola as a reliable, profitable crop for growers in Saskatchewan and Western Canada. The agronomist joined the Canola Council of Canada and the Saskatchewan Canola Growers Association, where he worked with researchers, equipment manufacturers, seed companies and growers to reduce challenges and provide a successful outcome for growers.
The late Margaret Crowle, who died in 2021, was known for her work as an extension specialist and home economics entrepreneur. She helped develop services to support families with financial management as well working with the Consumers’ Association of Canada.
Jack Dawes is a long-time agricultural broadcast journalist who also served as general manager of the Prairie Oat Growers Association from 2003-11 and was instrumental in establishing the Saskatchewan Oat Development Commission and Manitoba Oat Growers Association.
Leslie Hill provided technical harvesting knowledge to Saskatchewan farmers, primarily as the project manager of Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute’s combine testing and evaluation program. He played a key role in the improvements that harvesting machinery manufacturers put into practice in Western Canada, particularly in combine optimization and harvest loss reduction.
Jeff Schoenau is a professor of soil fertility and professional agrologist who works in the University of Saskatchewan’s soil science department. He has researched soil nutrient management for crop and livestock production and ways to improve soil, water and air quality.
Mark Silzer is a strong advocate and leader for the bison industry. He has volunteered thousands of hours to help improve the industry at the local, provincial, national and international levels. He served on the boards of the Saskatchewan and Canadian bison associations, including as president and chair of the CBA from 2004-2016.
A formal induction ceremony will be held in Saskatoon Nov. 12.
For more information, visit sahf.ca.
