The Nova Scotia Animal Breeders (NSAB) Co-operative recently announced that it’s joining EastGen.
The co-operative’s members voted 98 per cent to become full, equal stakeholders in the farmer-owned EastGen, and by extension, the Semex Alliance, both headquartered at Guelph, Ont.
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.
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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, Que., 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 co-operative to strengthen our genetic offering.
“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 1, at which point NSAB will integrate into the EastGen. 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.
The move unifies producers across Atlantic Canada under a single governance structure.
The NSAB is based in Truro, N.S.
