BY: Melvin Rattai, Chair, MPSG
As chair of Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers (MPSG) I have the privilege of experiencing first-hand many positive changes brought about by producer-directed groups. As a farmer I recognize these changes can go unnoticed by our members as they are busy running their businesses. As a result, I want to take this opportunity to highlight some key achievements from 2024.
One of my favourites was the establishment of the Soy Quality Program at the Canadian Grain Commission’s Grain (CGC) research lab in Winnipeg, Man. In 2024, Soy Canada worked with the CGC to relocate the storied soy quality program to Winnipeg after operating for years out of the Agriculture and Agri-Food (AAFC) lab in Harrow, Ont. The Winnipeg lab is continuing the testing of food-grade soybean variety quality as well as generating data on the performance of Canadian soybeans in the manufacture of miso, tofu and soy beverages. Canadian exporters use this information to promote our soybeans in premium markets around the world. In addition, staff from the CGC lend their food science expertise to conversations with buyers. The renewed Soy Quality Program will help growers earn extra dollars in the food market. Interestingly, not all human food markets purchase non-GM beans. Our commodity GM soybeans fit very well in some Southeast Asian food markets.
Another highlight for me was the advances MPSG made in its On-Farm Network research program. A decision to increase investment in data gathering technology is helping growers experiment with production questions right on their own land. At the annual On-Farm Network Appreciation Dinner in December I witnessed the unique value this program brings to farmers across Manitoba.
Connecting with our elected representatives in government took on new urgency late in 2024 with a change in the United States administration. Through a combined effort by our national groups in Ottawa along with MPSG’s long standing relationship with Manitoba Agriculture, we were able to meet with both the federal and provincial agriculture ministers in rapid succession. I’m pleased we’re on the same page with the province regarding research, extension and trade. Joining other commodity groups in meeting with the federal minister and AAFC officials solidified the united front ag will take into what could be challenging times in Canada-U.S. trade.