Dr. Adrian Johnston was announced as the latest recipient of Saskatchewan Pulse Growers’ Pulse Promoter Award at their annual general meeting on Monday, January 14.
He was recognized for his research focused on conservation tillage, oilseed and pulse crop diversity in crop rotations, and nutrient management practices, as well as his commitment and support to Saskatchewan Pulse Growers through their research and development committee.
“Adrian has served as a long-standing member of SPG’s Research and Development Committee,” says Corey Loessin, SPG Board Chair. “During his time on the Committee, he has been adept at analyzing the scientific rigour of various proposals, and then judging the expected outcome impact (value) specifically for pulse growers. His years of research and field experience have been a valuable asset for SPG.”
Johnston studied at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S), earning an agriculture degree in 1981. He worked as an extension agrologist with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture until 1985. Johnston went back to the U of S to complete his masters and doctoral degrees in crop science, and once complete, he worked for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Lethbridge and Melfort until 1999. Johnston joined the International Plant Nutrition Institute and was the Western Canada Director from 1999 to 2004, and later Vice President for Asia, Africa, and the Middle East program, until his retirement in 2016.
“Adrian Johnston’s tireless research and work in the areas of conservation tillage and diversifying crop rotations by adding pulses and oilseeds, has helped producers not only grow their profitability, but has also added to the sustainability of crops overall on the Prairies,” says Carl Potts, Executive Director for SPG.
The Pulse Promoter Award recognizes individuals who have made a significant contribution to the development of Saskatchewan’s pulse industry in the areas of production, marketing, promotion, research, extension, processing, management, and/or innovation. The Pulse Promoter Award is supported in partnership with BASF Canada.
Accountable to and funded by growers, SPG’s strategic direction is guided by a seven member, grower-elected, Board of Directors. SPG’s mission is to provide leadership for profitable growth for Saskatchewan pulses.
Source : Saskpulse Growers