The program.
Our distinguished lineup of speakers will provide their expert insights on critical issues shaping the industry’s future. We are pleased to announce that the conference will include:
- Western Milk Pool Chair Henry Holtmann and CEO Nolan Berg will engage in a discussion regarding the collective vision of the Western Milk Pool, reinforcing the theme of solidarity and collaboration in addressing common challenges.
- The Western Milk Pool Economics and Strategy Team will provide an overview of the current BC dairy market landscape, consumer preferences, and opportunities for growth.
- Christophe Lafougere, Managing Director and Dairy Director at Gira Food Service in France will share a global dairy industry outlook and discussion around emerging markets. Christophe will identify potential growth opportunities worldwide and discuss how the BC and Canadian dairy industry can be strategically positioned in the global marketplace. Christophe has been with Gira for over 25 years. His experience in consultancy, due diligence and research reaches across all food and drink sectors, with particular expertise in the dairy industry.
- J.P Gervais, VP & Chief Economist with Farm Credit Canada will provide an overview of factors influencing the cost of operating a dairy farm business. His insights help guide strategy, monitor risks and identify opportunities in the current economic environment. This discussion will touch financial planning, risk assessment, and risk management strategies for dairy farms.
- Mohamad Yaghi, Agriculture and Climate Policy Lead at RBC will share the topline findings from the RBC Climate Action Institute’s report Farmers Wanted: The labour renewal Canada needs to build the Next Green Revolution. The report raises key questions regarding the future gaps, and workforce opportunities within Canadian agriculture.
- J.P Gervais and Mohamad Yaghi will be joined by producer and BC Dairy board member Mark Van Klei, who operates M&L Dairy Ltd. and Van Klei Farms, which produces blueberries, for a moderated discussion on the current and near-term economic climate for dairy in BC and Canada.
- The Future of Dairy session will be led by Marcela Cota, Director, Product Management & Technical Sales at Vitalus Nutrition. Her presentation will explore exciting product development and innovation, setting the stage for the dairy products of tomorrow.
- Dairy Farmers of Canada Chair David Wiens and Chief Executive Officer Jacques Lefebvre will provide a DFC update.
- To honour those who have made significant contributions to the industry, we will also celebrate with the BC Dairy Historical Society Award. And, recognizing excellence in dairy cattle, the BC Holstein Branch will present the prestigious BC Cow of the Year Award.
Whether you are considering attending for the first time, or you’ve participated in the past, we value your support of this annual event. Dairy farming is a unique and indispensable way of life that provides jobs, high-quality products, and leading industry standards across the province.
