On June 30, 2025, the Alberta Forage Industry Network (AFIN) will officially close up shop after 15 years, passing its mandate to the Agricultural Research & Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA).
Alan Hall, executive director of ARECA, says in an interview with RealAgriculture's Amber Bell that this transition is “a good fit” as ARECA is well positioned to keep driving forage advocacy, research, and extension. He adds, “ARECA… will be working very closely with the commissions, BCRC, [and] others… to make sure that we still get good action… on the forage side of things."
ARECA, led by a producer board, already supports forage priorities–from ruminant industry needs to soil health research and extension. The organization aims to bring “expanded resources and championing efforts” into on farm forage programs and policy support.
As Hall reflects on the evolving industry he says that once a “forgotten crop,” forages have now become recognized for both profitability and sustainability. Alberta farmers are no longer tacking forages into rotations by default; they’re actively managing and investing in them alongside canola, wheat, and pulses.
