CALGARY, AB (May 21, 2026) - Following today’s cabinet shuffle announced by Premier Danielle Smith, Alberta Grains is welcoming the appointment of Tara Sawyer as Alberta’s new minister of agriculture and irrigation.

Minister Sawyer brings a deep, first-hand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities for Alberta’s farmers across the value chain and within a global market through her long-term advocacy and leadership within the grain industry, including as past chair of Alberta Grains.

“We congratulate Minister Sawyer on her appointment and look forward to continuing to work together to support Alberta farmers and strengthen the province’s agriculture sector,” said Alberta Grains chair Scott Jespersen. “Her experience as both a farmer and industry leader will bring valuable perspective to the role at an important time for Alberta agriculture.”

Alberta Grains also thanks outgoing minister of agriculture and irrigation RJ Sigurdson for his work and collaboration with Alberta’s crop sector during his time in the role.

“Minister Sigurdson has been a strong supporter of Alberta agriculture and we appreciate his willingness to engage with farmers and agricultural organizations on issues that matter to our industry,” said Jespersen. “We thank him for his service and his contributions to Alberta agriculture and know he will continue to be an advocate in his new role as minister of affordability and utilities.”

Alberta Grains looks forward to continuing to work with Minister Sawyer, Minister Sigurdson and the provincial government on issues important to wheat and barley farmers, including market access, research investment and policies that support long-term competitiveness, profitability and viability of farming across the province.

About Alberta Grains:

Alberta Grains is a farmer-directed, not-for-profit organization that represents Alberta’s wheat and barley farmers. Through research, advocacy and extension, Alberta Grains works to improve the profitability and long-term sustainability of the grain industry.

Media Contact:

Harley Groeneveld
Senior Manager, Communications & Marketing
Alberta Grains
hgroeneveld@albertagrains.com
403-371-2132