Brian Kennedy says he is eagerly awaiting harvest completion so he can go out and meet more wheat farmers.
Kennedy, the new grower relations co-ordinator for the Alberta Wheat Commission, knows many farmers can’t spare time for policy talk at this time of year.
“I don’t want to be a pestilence upon growers at the busiest time of year, when they only have a few weeks to make their year’s salary,” said Kennedy. “But I’m chomping at the bit for harvest to get done so I get out and bother more people, if that makes any sense.”
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Grower relations co-ordinator is a new position for the commission, which was established a year ago. Kennedy said it entails meeting with wheat growers and expressing their views and concerns to the board while also communicating board messages to growers.
He has a farm background and has worked in agricultural research, computer science and corporate training.
The commission also appointed a new general manager in August to replace Rick Istead, who retired.
Doug Cornell has a background in agricultural production and management, commodity marketing and customer relations.
Chair Kent Erickson described Cornell as “a natural leader who believes in and supports teamwork.”
Cornell is responsible for developing and implement the commission’s marketing, research and producer engagement programs.
