Alberta Forage Network to close at the end of the month

Jun 11, 2025 | 3:49 PM

The Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN) will transfer its responsibilities for representing the Alberta forage industry to the Agricultural Research and Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA) effective June 30.

AFIN was created in 2010 to engage cooperation among forage industry producers/processors, ag business, public and not for profit stakeholders to improve profitability and sustainability through the use of forages. After careful consideration and extensive consultation with industry stakeholders, the decision has been made to transition representation to ARECA.

Edward Shaw, Chair of Alberta Forage Industry Network said ARECA works closely with numerous Forage and Applied Research Associations, Commissions, Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA), researchers, ag business and governments in advocating on forage issues.

“ARECA’s expertise in supporting rural producers, combined with its commitment to sustainability, makes it an ideal fit for continuing the important work for Alberta’s forage industry,” Shaw said. “While this is the end of an era for AFIN, we are confident that the forage sector will be in capable hands with ARECA moving forward.”

The transition marks a new chapter for Alberta’s forage sector, and AFIN’s members will be integrated into ARECA’s initiatives.

ARECA Board Chair Wolter van der Kamp said they will continue to support Alberta’s forage producers, focusing on sustainable practices and resource management at the provincial and national levels.

“We are grateful for AFIN’s years of service to Alberta’s forage producers, and we look forward to carrying on this legacy under the ARECA banner. “This transition will help strengthen the connection between forage producers and the resources they need to thrive in Alberta’s ever-evolving agricultural landscape,” van der Kamp said.

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com