The Canadian Forage and Grassland Association (CFGA) 2024 Annual Conference took place Dec. 3 to 6 in Guelph, Ontario, in partnership with the Ontario Forage Council. This year’s theme was "Roots to Success: The Foundation of Resilient Agriculture." 
 
The event featured a variety of workshops, presentations, panel discussions and networking opportunities focused on the latest advancements and practices in the forage and grassland sectors. Day one covered topics of interest in the grassland and pasture realm while day two focused on tame forages and markets. 
 
Dr. Ralph Martin, a retired professor from University of Guelph, kicked off the presentations with his keynote on perennial forages as key contributors to sustainable agriculture. He was followed by Senator Robert Black who presented on the findings and recommendations of the Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry Soil Study Report Critical Ground. 
 
Other keynotes included: 

• Dr. Angela Straathof with the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA) speaking on advancing grassland management through research and producer support based on lessons from Ontario initiatives. 
• Dr. Martin Chantigny with Agriculture and Agri-Foods Canada (AAFC) speaking about dipping into perennials to restore soil health, carbon content and resilience of annual cropping systems. 
• Loft 32’s Maggie van Camp, with special guests Marc and Nia Jones from New Zealand, discussing succession planning and building your farm’s future with the next generation.  

Other key highlights included: 

• Pre-conference workshop on carbon and biodiversity indicators: Attendees learned about integrating biodiversity data with existing inventory frameworks. 
• Knowledge technology translation (KTT) communications workshop: This session provided attendees with strategies for effective communication and audience engagement. 
• Young farmer forum and luncheon: A platform for young farmers to share experiences and insights. 
• Hay exporter and marketer social: A night dedicated to the marketing and exporting of hay products. 
• Forage Focus: Post-conference tour: An opportunity to explore local forage operations and innovations. 

The conference also featured a tradeshow of our valued annual partners and conference sponsors, a poster and infographic showcase and the CFGA Leadership Award presentation to Quebec research scientist Dr. Annie Claessens. 
 
Thank you to our annual partners and conference sponsors: Glacier Farm Media, Dairy Farmers of Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada, BrettYoung, DLF, Farm Credit Canada, Ducks Unlimited Canada, Chinook Hay Systems, Marhaven Agri, Agri-King, Grasslands Ontario, Nuhn Forage, Marcrest, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, National Farmers Union – Ontario, Nutri-Pel Fertilizer, Wonderfull Inc., Boot Hay Farms, DSV NorthStar, Quality Seeds and Star Quality Samplers.