About Manitoba Organic Alliance

P.Ag. CCA

I am a Professional Agrologist based out of St. Pierre-Jolys and provide independent consulting services to both conventional and organic farms. I specialize in integrated pest management, soil fertility and on-farm trials.

Organic agriculture pushes the boundaries of conventional thinking by proving what is possible. Critically thinking about how management decisions affect your crops and alternative management styles are the keys to success.

(Director since 2018)

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)

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)

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)

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)

(Director since 2022)

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

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.

Umar has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Manitoba with a major in Environmental Studies and a minor in Physical Geography.

Umar brings his competence and experience in sustainable development and regenerative systems to support the promotion of regenerative food production, rural – urban corporation and organic agriculture.

He firmly believes that organic farming practices are essential in maintaining the health of our environment, while providing people and communities with healthier food varieties. He is also a big believer in sharing knowledge and collaboration to drive positive change.