The Alberta Federation of Agriculture’s annual general meeting gets underway Wednesday in Red Deer when delegates will gather to debate and pass policy on a range of issues important to the agriculture sector.

With the theme Shifting Gears, Alberta farmers and industry leaders from across the country will have the opportunity to hear about emerging technologies, the impact of climate change and new developments in farm labour and safety legislation.

Oneil Carlier, THE Minister of Alberta Agriculture and Forestry, will be there January 22 and will provide a provincial update. He will also participate in a bear pit session with Olds College agricultural students who are attending the  AGM to gain first-hand knowledge of policy development.
        
Other speaker highlights from the AGM agenda include:
•    Lawyer Tom Ross will give a legal perspective on Alberta’s farm labour legislation
•    Scientist Dr. Andre Erler will present his observations on the climate system in western Canada
•    Shaun Haney from RealAgriculture will share his views on the digital age of farming
•    Markus Weber with AgEagle will feature drone technology and profitability on the farm
•    Rick McConnell, risk management expert, will cover innovations in pasture technology
•    Daryl Bennett will discuss surface rental issues in Alberta
•    Garth Patterson with Western Grains Research Foundation will speak about agronomic capacity

The AGM is a great place to hear about issues and opportunities in agriculture. Alberta member producers also have a chance to table, debate and vote on policy priorities for AFA in the year ahead.