Emma Cross

Tracey's Bio

Tracey combines academic expertise with entrepreneurial experience in agriculture. After two years of graduate research in honey bee biology at the University of Alberta, she founded Beanstalk Honey, running it for over a decade while building strong connections in the farming community. With a background in conservation biology, sustainable agriculture, and industry leadership, Tracey brings a vision for innovation and community engagement to her role at Organic Alberta.

Organic Alberta

Tatyana's Bio

Tatyana Pavlovets is the Executive Director of the Central Alberta Forage and Livestock Association (CAFLA), a producer-led organization committed to providing knowledge, tools and resources that build and support a thriving ag community in Central Alberta.

In her role, Tatyana works closely with producers, researchers, and industry partners to translate research into practical, on-farm solutions that enhance productivity, sustainability, and resilience. She is passionate about fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange within the agricultural community, ensuring that producer voices and priorities drive CAFLA’s work.

Under her leadership, CAFLA has strengthened its role as a trusted connector and resource for producers across Central Alberta—supporting peer learning, sustainable grazing practices, and evidence-based management strategies that build stronger, more adaptive farm operations.

As a mother of two young adults and a teenager, Tatyana is deeply passionate about creating awareness and opportunities for youth in agriculture and helping the next generation see a future in the industry.

Central Alberta Forage and Livestock Association

Charles's Bio

Charles Russell is the owner of Plains Pantry Pemmican, where he leads interactive workshops that bring the art of pemmican-making to life. Blending traditional Blackfoot teachings with modern science, Charles helps participants explore how this traditional Indigenous food continues to offer value in today’s world. His sessions create a bridge between traditional knowledge and contemporary understanding through storytelling, hands-on learning, and food.

Balwinder's Bio

Dr. Balwinder Kumar is a Research Scientist at Lakeland College’s Applied Research in Vermilion, Alberta. He specializes in cereal and forage crop agronomy, nutrient management, sustainable agriculture, and climate-resilient farming systems. With over 20 years of experience in research, teaching, extension and administration, Dr. Kumar works closely with farmers, scientists, and students to solve real-world agricultural challenges.

At Lakeland College, he leads projects focused on improving production of wheat, barley, oat, triticale and forage crops to support crops and livestock producers across the Prairies. His research helps farmers grow healthier, more productive crops using smarter agronomic management and conservation practices.

Originally from India, Dr. Kumar has shared his research in over seven countries and has received international recognition for his work. He’s passionate about engaging youth and the next generation of agricultural leaders in science, sustainability, and innovation.

Lakeland College