The Board of Directors of the Nova Scotia Animal Breeders (NSAB) Co-operative, Truro, NS, is pleased to announce a historic transition for its membership. On January 29th, NSAB members voted with an overwhelming 98% majority to become full, equal stakeholders in the farmer-owned EastGen, and by extension, the Semex Alliance, both headquartered at Guelph, ON.
This decision marks the culmination of a strategic journey that began several years ago. Recognizing the challenges of a maturing market, the NSAB Board prioritized a pathway for its members to secure direct ownership and a governing voice within the Semex Alliance.
For nearly four decades of its 80-year history, NSAB has maintained a robust and successful relationship with CIAQ (Centre d’insémination artificielle du Québec), Saint-Hyacinthe, QC, for the supply of world-class genetics and services.
“The relationship between NSAB and CIAQ has been a cornerstone of our industry,” said Reg Dillman, Chairman of the NSAB Board of Directors. “In 1946, regional breeding entities in Nova Scotia had the foresight to create a provincial cooperative to strengthen our genetic offering. Throughout our 80-year history, remaining member-focused and member-owned has been our priority. While we are excited to embark on this new chapter of direct ownership with EastGen, we hold the deepest respect for CIAQ. Their partnership has been instrumental in the progress of Nova Scotia’s herds, and we are forever grateful for the collaboration with CIAQ that allowed us to achieve so much.”
The transition is scheduled to begin June 1st, at which point NSAB will integrate into the EastGen fold. This transition includes the purchase of semen and products and a focus on maintaining continuity of service for Nova Scotia producers.
In conjunction with this move, NSAB members have voted to wind up the Co-op and establish a Legacy Fund. This fund will be dedicated to supporting Canadian ruminant agricultural programs with a specific emphasis on youth, ensuring the co-operative’s 80-year history leaves a lasting impact on the next generation of farmers.
Johanne Chartier, General Manager of CIAQ, said, “On behalf of CIAQ, I would like to acknowledge the relationship of trust that has united us and express our pride in having supported the producers of Nova Scotia, while respecting their needs and identity, over all these years. We wish them a bright future and every success in this new chapter.”
The move unifies producers across Atlantic Canada under a single governance structure.
“EastGen members are excited to welcome Nova Scotia producers as equal stakeholders,” said Amanda Jeffs, President of EastGen. “All producers in Atlantic Canada will now have direct delegate and director input into the genetics company supplying their needs. This move allows the Atlantic region to be served in a more integrated way through the coordination of talent and a unified strategic vision.”
