Distinguished Agrologist Award
Open to all active Professional Agrologists (PAg) and Technical Agrologists (TechAg).
The Distinguished Agrologists Award may be presented to a Saskatchewan agrologist for professional distinction associated with outstanding service and worthy contributions to agriculture, bioresources, food or the environment.
Outstanding Young Agrologist Award
Presented to a young Saskatchewan agrologist under the age of 40 who has provided outstanding service and made worthy contributions to agriculture, bioresources, food, or the environment.
Honourary Life Membership
Open to any non-member without the qualifications necessary for registration.
An Honourary Life Membership may be presented out of respect and in recognition of Saskatchewan achievements in and service to agriculture, bioresources, food, or the environment, but without the usual prerequisites, duties, or obligations of membership contained in The Agrologists Act and the Institute’s Bylaws.
Agrology Excellence (AGEX) Award
Open to any organization.
Presented to organizations, agencies or businesses in recognition of outstanding contribution to agriculture, bioresources, food or the environment in Saskatchewan by providing professional services of Professional Agrologists and Technical Agrologists.
Nomination Process
- Download the desired nomination form above.
- Fill out and submit the following to info@sia.sk.ca by February 28th.
- Completed Nomination Form
- Supporting letters of recommendation
2022 Award Winners

Outstanding Young Agrologist Award
Scott Dudiak PAg
Scott is passionate about sustainability. As an agrologist, he has implemented strategies to reduce waste, including hazardous mine materials, and applied solutions for reducing greenhouse gas emissions. He is a contributing author for articles published in his local newspaper, writing about sustainability and bioresources. Recently Scott was appointed coordinator with zero-waste Yukon, a collaborative effort created to increase awareness and action around consumption and disposal of resources.

Distinguished Agrologist Award
Andrew Van Kessel PhD, PAg
Dr. Van Kessel PAg is an internationally recognized expert in animal health and nutrition. His contributions to the agriculture and food sector have been groundbreaking and have resulted in more effective feeding strategies, management practices and improvements to livestock production, housing, and the health of our farm animals. He has had an outstanding career as a researcher, administrator and supporter of the agriculture- and food industry and is a sought-after international speaker.

Distinguished Agrologist Award
Michael Hoffort PAg
Michael has a passion for agriculture, that originates from his family roots in the industry. Throughout his career as an agrologist, he established and grew strong relationships within the industry. As CEO of Farm Credit Canada, he championed various initiatives. Recently, he has been an advocate in FCC’s truth and reconciliation journey to implement initiatives to support Indigenous agriculture. Michael is a mentor, leader, volunteer, and builder of strong industry initiatives.

Distinguished Agrologist Award
(presented posthumously)
Glen Helgason PAg
Glen’s agrology career began at Farm Credit Canada in Tisdale. He remained active in the profession after returning to Foam Lake to take over the family farm. Over the years, he expanded the operation, started a fertilizer spreading business, and took on the role of owner and CEO of Milligan Bio-Agriculture Services. Glen was a leader in learning and applying new technology and products to his business operations. His work ethic and knowledge are deeply missed by his family and colleagues.

Honourary Life Membership
Dieter Martin
Dieter Martin is well-known among horticultural enthusiasts in and around Saskatoon. He played a key role in developing all the green space at the University of Saskatchewan as head gardener from 1957 to 1976 and helped make the university one of the most beautiful campus’s in Canada. In 1970, he opened Dieter Martin Greenhouse, which remains a thriving small business in Langham, SK today. His dedication to the art and science of horticulture inspired others to learn, experiment, and grow.

Agrology Excellence Award
SWT
At SWT (also known as the Southwest Terminal) their mission is to help their customers succeed by being the leader in grain and crop inputs solutions. Located in Gull Lake, SK, SWT opened their doors to the public in 1997 when they became the first producer-owned terminal in southwest Saskatchewan. Over the past 25 years, they expanded their operations to Hazenmore, Cabri, Shaunavon, Wymark, and Kyle. SWT supports the communities they serve. SWT’s slogan is Investing in your farm and community. One of their many community sponsorship initiatives includes the matching donation program where producers have the option to donate up to 50 cents per metric tonne of grain delivered to their terminals to a charity of their choice and SWT will match their donation.

Recognition Award
Bruce Coulman PhD, PAg (Ret)
Throughout Bruce’s agrology career, his focus has been on research. As a scientist, he was responsible for programs in the breeding and genetics of alfalfa and perennial grasses. Bruce is highly regarded as a leader and his work has significantly advanced Canada’s livestock industry. In addition to his academic work, he is an active member of the SIA Admissions and Registration committee which is responsible for reviewing and approving membership applications.

Recognition Award
Lorence Peterson PAg (Ret)
(presented posthomously)
Lorence’s agrology career spanned more than 38 years. He was employed with the Royal Bank in Saskatoon. He took early retirement in 1995 before taking on the role of Executive Director with the Western Grains Research Foundation. Lorence was a dedicated and active volunteer. He also gave back to the profession and served two terms on the SIA Provincial Council, and was a member of the Admissions and Registration Committee. His legacy is impressive and he is greatly missed.