OUR MISSION
“Represent, promote and grow Manitoba’s organic sector through knowledge sharing, advocacy, and market development.”
OUR VISION
“A strong, resilient and united organic sector based on the foundational principles of organic agriculture- health, ecology, fairness and care.”
Our Commitment
• Grow the organic industry
• Shape the future of organics in Manitoba and Canada
• Positively impact organic businesses and farm operations
• Foster networking opportunities within the organic community
• Collaborate to support producers to learn & develop skills (best management practices)
Who We Are
Our Members
Certified organic entities in Manitoba are automatically members of the Manitoba Organic Alliance.
We also offer Association Memberships and Friends of MOA memberships.
Join Our Membership
The Manitoba Organic Alliance is excited to be a member of the Farmers for Climate Solutions coalition.
Anne Kirk
Chair
M.Sc. P.Ag. CCA
I am an organic grain farmer in Sanford, MB and also work as the cereal crop specialist with Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development. Prior to working at Manitoba Agriculture, I worked on the participatory plant breeding program in the natural systems agriculture lab at the University of Manitoba.
Organic agriculture requires approaching problems in a different way, and I enjoy the challenge of thinking about the whole farming system when it comes to making agronomic decisions.
(Director since 2019)
Julie Ellis
Vice-Chair
Julie is a trained baker, specializing in sourdough and whole grains. Recently opening up a stone flour mill business, Bloom Bakery and Mill, she uses the grain that is grown on her family farm. Milling organic and conventional grains but always supporting regenerative farming practices. She is passionate food, agriculture, and processing!
(Director since 2024)
Glen Elliot
Treasurer
(Director since 2024)
Ken Sabatier
Director, HR Committee
Ken Sabatier has worked in the organic grain sector as general manager of an organic grain company, and currently manages an organic certified biological inputs company. Ken brings experience to the board in international grain trading, and crop inputs production and marketing across North America. Ken and his wife Deanna currently reside at their hobby farm in the RM of La Broquerie.
Ken previously served as a MOA Board Member between 2012 -2018, and has served in a number of advisory positions with COTA and the Prairie Organic Grain Initiative.
(Director since 2022)
Jason Peters
Director, Podcast Committee
I am an agronomist at Kroeker Farms/Poplar Grove Organics in Winkler, Manitoba. I work closely with our farm team to help produce a variety of organic crops including potatoes, hemp, small grains and green manures.
I’ve been involved in agriculture ever since I could see over the steering wheel in Dad’s tractor, and I continue to enjoy making connections with others and sharing ideas, particularly in the context of organic agriculture. When I’m not working, I enjoy running, camping and spending time with family.
(Director since 2020)
Dan Dorge
Director, OPAM representative
(Director since 2024)
Laura Natrasony
Director, HR Committee
I have been an organic crop, livestock, wild rice, mushroom and processing inspector since 2009. The inspection side of my life has given me opportunities to see the many ways that organic producers are working to improve soil health to grow food in the most sustainable and healthiest ways.
As an organic crop and livestock producer I’ve raised my family on our small farm near Fork River Mb. I am always interested in learning methods of production which mitigate the issues producers are faced with, while improving land health for future generations. Healthy food = healthier people.
(Director since 2019)
Jay Brysen
Director
(Director since 2022)
Dennis Hoeppner
Director
(Director since 2022)
Our Staff
Marika Dewar-Norosky
Executive Director
Marika is the Executive Director of the Manitoba Organic Alliance. With a degree in Biosystems Engineering from the University of Manitoba and a strong connection to organic farming, Marika brings a unique blend of expertise and dedication to our organization.
Growing up on an Organic grain farm in Western Manitoba, Marika developed a deep-rooted passion for sustainability and a strong desire to feed the world responsibly. Marika advocates for regenerative farming practices, promotes organic certification, and fosters partnerships within the industry.
Beyond their professional achievements, Marika finds joy in exploring nature and actively participating in community initiatives. Continuously expanding their knowledge in sustainability, they stay at the forefront of advancements in the field
Nanki Saluja
Communications & Fundraising assistant
Kael Fenez
Event Coordinator
Kael is the Events Coordinator at Manitoba Organic Alliance. They have a Bachelor’s degree, majoring in Environmental Studies and minoring in Communications, serving their passion for effectively communicating the climate crisis.
Kael was born and raised on a small hobby farm, and has extensive experience working with nonprofits in the sphere of sustainability. Experiences in community-led initiatives to tackle food insecurity and address food sovereignty issues helped them to bridge the gap between sustainability and community health, leading them to be passionate about feeding the world equitably and sustainably.
Marie-Eve Levert
Consultant Director of Business Development, Organic Grain Hub
Marie-Eve is the Director of Business Development at the Organic Grain Hub, a digital platform created by MOA to support organic grain growers in accessing market intelligence, pricing information, and fostering connections with grain buyers.
She brings a wealth of experience in trade, international relations, and strategic planning for the agri-food sector. In her work with the organic industry, Marie-Eve has led a dozen international trade missions to the United States, Europe, and Japan.
Marie-Eve has a strong background in developing and managing strategic relationships, including her roles as International Trade and Regulatory Affairs Director at the Canada Organic Trade Association and industry chair of the Organic Value Chain Roundtable. She has extensive experience in fundraising and grant applications and holds degrees in International Relations and International Law, as well as a Master’s in Public Administration.
Melonie Stoughton
Federal rep (non-voting)
Government representative
Laura Telford
Provincial rep (non-voting)
Government representative
Core Values
Core values are the underlying principles or philosophies that guide the work of the organization. These values outline what is important and symbolize the organization’s beliefs. They help to create a strong internal culture.
● Teamwork & Relationship Building – We support each other and bring the organic community together to collaborate, network and achieve our goals.
● Transparency & Open Communication – We welcome two-way communication with members. We are committed to listen to diverse perspectives.
● Integrity – We make ethical decisions and operate with mutual respect, trust and accountability.
● Professionalism – We take pride in our work.