Calgary, Alberta – June 6, 2025 – The Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN) is officially announcing the closure of its operations effective June 30, 2025 as well as the transfer of its responsibilities for representing the Alberta forage industry to the Agricultural Research & Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA).

AFIN was created in 2010 providing a mechanism for collaborations among various forage industry producers/processors, ag business, public and not for profit stakeholders to work together to have a stronger voice affecting positive change improving profitability and sustainability of their businesses through use of forages.  ARECA will continue this collaborative approach among stakeholders.

AFIN has been a dedicated voice for Alberta’s forage producers for 15 years, advocating for the sustainability and growth of the province’s forage industry. After careful consideration and extensive consultation with industry stakeholders, the decision has been made to transition representation to ARECA.  ARECA, a producer led organization, 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 and opportunities, and in supporting applied research, on farm projects and various extension activities supporting forage and livestock producers.

“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,” said Edward Shaw, Chairperson of Alberta Forage Industry Network. “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.”

This transition marks a new chapter for Alberta’s forage sector, and AFIN’s members will be seamlessly integrated into ARECA’s initiatives, benefiting from the expanded resources and championing efforts the organization provides to Alberta’s agriculture sector.

Key Points of Transition:

• AFIN Closure: Effective June 30, 2025, Alberta Forage Industry Network will cease operations.
• Transfer of Representation: Forage industry representation, services, and advocacy efforts will now be handled by ARECA.
• Member Integration: Current AFIN members will be transitioned into ARECA’s programs, ensuring continued support and services.

ARECA will continue to support Alberta’s forage producers, focusing on sustainable practices and resource management at the provincial and national levels. For more information about ARECA’s services and how to get involved, please visit https://www.areca.ca/.

“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,” said Wolter van der Kamp, ARECA Board Chair. “This transition will help strengthen the connection between forage producers and the resources they need to thrive in Alberta’s ever-evolving agricultural landscape.”

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Edward Shaw

Chairperson
Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN)
Phone: 403-701-1600

Email: ed@iqforage.com

OR

Alan Hall

Executive Director

Agricultural Research & Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA)

Phone: 403-506-1105

Email: ED@areca.ab.ca

About Alberta Forage Industry Network:
The Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN) was established to advocate for the interests of forage producers in Alberta, focusing on research, policy, and education to support sustainable forage management practices across the province.

About ARECA:
The Agricultural Research & Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA) is a not-for-profit, producer-led organization that supports a network of applied research and extension associations to connect producers to programs, services, innovations, and research to improve the profitability and sustainability of their farm and ranch businesses.

Alberta Forage Industry Network 15 year Impact Review: 

Representing Alberta’s diverse forage industry, the board and committee members of AFIN have been committed to fostering two-way communication, championing research and extension, and influencing policy and practice.  Formed in 2010 the AFIN Board is represented by 8+ industry members with advisors from both the Governments of Alberta and Canada.  The annual total estimated direct and indirect economic value of the forage industry in Alberta ranges from $2.1 to $3.8 billion!

This is a listing of the many successes during the 15 year history of AFIN!

-The Value of Alberta’s Forage Industry – A Multi-Level Analysis

-Supporting multiple research projects, advocating our diverse native & agronomic systems in Alberta & across Canada, including, but not limited to:

• Federal Forage Agronomy Research Programs
• Cover Crops
• Federal Forage Breeding Programs
• Soil Health
• High Legume Pastures
• Benefits of Grazing
• Climate Change Considerations of Perennial Forages 

-Position papers regarding Climate Change, Herbicide Tolerant Alfalfa and the Role of Forages & Grasslands in the Canadian Agricultural Ecosystem

-Lobbying our elected representatives to encourage the manufacture of inoculant for low acreage legumes

-Promoting forages as an important export commodity from Alberta & Canada

-Providing an opportunity to be inclusive of all forage related industries in Alberta

-Sustainable Forage Series – Connecting Producers & Forage Researchers from across Canada

-Granting Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN) Leadership Awards

-Quarterly newsletters on current Forage Industry topics