Simon Ellis acknowledges the departures of CSGA Executive Director Doug Miller and AAFC wheat breeder Dr. Richard Cuthbert, citing both legacy and future challenges for Canada’s seed sector.

A statement from the president of the Manitoba Seed Growers’ Association (MSGA) is drawing attention to two major leadership departures that signal both recognition and concern within Canada’s seed industry.

In his message to members, Simon Ellis, MSGA president, addresses the resignation of Doug Miller as executive director of the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association (CSGA), effective at the end of March 2026, alongside the departure of Dr. Richard Cuthbert from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) in Swift Current, where he served as a spring wheat breeder.

Ellis uses the message to underscore the significance of both individuals’ contributions and the broader implications for the industry. “Both of these individuals have left an indelible mark on Canada’s seed industry, and it would be a failure on the part of MSGA to not recognize and show appreciation for their contributions.”

Ellis raises concerns about the long-term erosion of public plant breeding capacity in Canada. Ellis writes, “The decline of AAFC plant breeding programs has been no secret to Canada’s agricultural community for several decades, and the departure of one of our leading public breeders is of serious concern for the future of public plant breeding in this country.”

During his tenure at AAFC, Cuthbert was responsible for releasing numerous spring wheat varieties that became foundational to Western Canadian production. Ellis also devotes a significant portion of his letter to acknowledging Miller’s leadership during a challenging period for CSGA. “Doug Miller has led CSGA through one of the most difficult chapters of CSGA with confidence, professionalism and authority,” Ellis writes.

According to the statement, Miller consistently advocated for seed growers by strengthening relationships, modernizing seed certification practices, and promoting Canadian pedigreed seed amid ongoing industry disruption. “Doug has represented and championed seed growers across the country by building relationships, evolving seed certification practices and advocating for Canadian pedigreed seed in an environment of constant disruption.”

Ellis highlights Miller’s work on CFIA’s Seed Regulatory Modernization file, stating that “Doug’s work on CFIA’s Seed Regulatory Modernization file has resulted in a policy paper released by CFIA which respects our seed grower members.”

Ellis concludes his statement by reflecting on the legacy both individuals leave behind and expressing gratitude on behalf of MSGA. “Both of these individuals have evolved our Industry in their own specific way, resulting in a strong foundation and legacy for Canada’s Pedigreed Seed system and hopefully MSGA member profitability, and sustainability.”

He added, “We know that the future is bright for our Industry, in part from the contributions and efforts from both Dr. Cuthbert and Doug Miller.”