This article appeared in the Spring 2015 issue of Pulse Crop News.

The annual Chops & Crops event brought together MLAs, government officials, producers and Alberta’s ag stakeholders in December.

Premier Jim Prentice and Agriculture Minister Verlyn Olson were among the many influential government representatives who spent an evening with nine agricultural producer groups from across Alberta at Chops & Crops.

Richard Krikke, Alberta Pulse Growers’ Chair at the time, had the honour of introducing the Minister, who in turn introduced the Premier.

“I take great pride in being a farmer in this great province and being part of the producer organizations hosting this gathering,” Krikke told the group. “The agriculture industry, and the groups we represent, make a significant contribution to Alberta’s thriving economy and rich culture. It is a testament to our industry to have so many MLAs and government staff from so many ministries carve time from your busy schedules as the holiday season ramps up to show your support for agriculture.”

Government ministers, MLAs and other government representatives were invited to engage directly with agriculture’s stakeholders and producers, to learn how they ensure that they are responsible stewards of the land while focusing on food safety and animal welfare.

“We are honoured that Premier Prentice, Agriculture Minister Olson and so many others are taking the time to attend this event, demonstrating their commitment to agriculture in this province and its contribution both to the economy, and the health and wellness of its residents,” said Colin Felstad, Chair of the Alberta Canola Producers Commission.

Chops & Crops is an annual event hosted by Alberta Pulse Growers, Alberta Canola Producers Commission, Alberta Pork, Alberta Sugar Beet Growers, Alberta Lamb Producers, Alberta Wheat Commission, Potato Growers of Alberta, Alberta Oat Growers Commission, and Alberta Barley. The reception featured delicious food that highlights the quality and flavour of the crops and meats grown by Alberta farmers and represented by the grower groups that organize the event.

“Alberta’s food producers face many of the same challenges and opportunities, regardless of which commodity they produce,” added Frank Novak, Chair of Alberta Pork. “By coming together and meeting with government as a group we can highlight these commonalities and more efficiently work with our government to achieve our goals to help grow the Alberta economy and make Albertans prosper.”