Tara Sawyer, chair of Alberta Grains, is taking a leave of absence from the organization effective immediately after being appointed by Premier Danielle Smith as the United Conservative Party (UCP) candidate in the Olds–Didsbury–Three Hills by-election.
In accordance with Alberta Grains’ governance procedures, vice-chair Scott Jespersen will assume the role of acting chair.
Sawyer, a wheat and barley farmer from Acme, was elected as the organization’s first chair in 2023 following the merger of the Alberta Wheat and Barley commissions. Her leadership was instrumental in guiding Alberta Grains through its formation and laying the groundwork for research, policy, and farmer engagement efforts.
“It has been an honour to represent Alberta’s wheat and barley farmers and help lead this organization during such a transformative time,” said Sawyer. “I’m proud of what our board has accomplished together and am confident in the strength of the leadership team taking the reins while I pursue this opportunity to continue serving Albertans in a new capacity.”
Jespersen, a grain farmer from Spruce Grove and Region 5 director with Alberta Grains, steps into the acting chair role with several years of board experience. He has contributed to the organization’s work in research, market development, policy advocacy, and agronomy.
“Tara’s leadership has been crucial in not only shaping the vision and direction of Alberta Grains but also in my own personal development as an executive board member and regional director,” said Jespersen. “On behalf of the board, staff and grain farmers across the province, I want to thank her for her service and dedication.”
With Jespersen moving into the acting chair position, second vice-chair Devin Hartzler, a grain farmer from Carstairs and Region 2 director, will become acting vice-chair. The vacant second vice-chair role will be filled at the next board meeting in July 2025.
The leadership transitions highlight Alberta Grains’ focus on stable, farmer-led governance and continued delivery of value to wheat and barley growers across the province, the organization said.
