Behind the Label: Unveiling Agricultural Myths and Realities

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10:00 - 11:00 a.m. (MST)

What myths and realities shape public perceptions of the Canadian Agriculture and Agri-food sectors? How do they ripple through the industry and beyond? Join us for the third installment of the Simpson Centre’s ‘Behind the Label’ Public Education webinar series. This webinar will explore the impact of misinformation on agriculture, demystify misconceptions and elaborate on its effects on practices, policies, and consumer behaviour. The webinar will also examine misconceptions concerning water resource allocation, sustainable usage, misinformation-driven challenges in Canadian agriculture, and prospective solutions to drive progress and resilience.

Hear from Grace Skogstad, professor emeritus at the University of Toronto and an esteemed scholar specializing in Canadian agricultural and food policy, whose research explores the political economy of agriculture, biofuels, and genetically modified products in Canada, North America, and Europe. Joining her are Nevin Rosaasen and Margo Jarvis Redelback. Nevin Rosaasen is a fourth-generation farmer from Saskatchewan and the Sustainability and Government Relations Lead at Alberta Pulse Growers. With a strong academic foundation in agriculture and international trade policy and hands-on farming experience, Nevin focuses on water, biodiversity, pesticides, and climate change while advocating for farmers at the grassroots level. Margo Jarvis Redelback is a professional agrologist and executive director of the Alberta Irrigation Districts Association, where she has driven significant infrastructure modernization and investment in Alberta’s irrigation sector. As a leader in agriculture, advocate for women, and dedicated 4-H volunteer, she exemplifies professionalism, community engagement, and a strong connection to her family farm and rural lifestyle. Together, they offer unique insights into the intersection of policy, sustainability, and the realities of modern farming.

Through this event, the Simpson Centre continues its mission of supporting Canada’s agriculture and agri-food sectors by promoting informed, evidence-based dialogue among stakeholders. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities shaping Canadian agriculture.

Speakers

  • Grace Skogstad, Professor Emeritus, Department of Political Science at the University of Toronto
  • Nevin Rosaasen, Sustainability & Government Relations Lead, Alberta Pulse Growers
  • Margo Jarvis Redelback, Executive Director, Alberta Irrigation Districts Association

Moderator

Brandy Yanchyk, Independent documentary filmmaker and journalist

ABOUT THE SIMPSON CENTRE.

The Simpson Centre mobilizes research for better policymaking and decision-making to realize a more sustainable agricultural industry. Strengthening the sustainability of agri-food and agribusiness means increasing food production to feed a growing global population, while attending to social and health impacts and the natural environment. We connect researchers, everyday people, industry stakeholders and government actors to scientific issues critical to the future of Canada’s agricultural and food system.