Scott Dingwell of Marie has been elected as one of four Canadian farmer representatives to the Board of Directors of the Canadian Farm Business Management Council. He replaces Dan MacLean of Tyne Valley, who served on the Council from 2000 to 2002. Colleen Younie, farm management specialist with the Department of Agriculture and Forestry, is the province's government representative to the Council.
"It is most encouraging to see young farmers take an active leadership role in the industry at both the provincial and national levels," said Agriculture and Forestry Minister Mitch Murphy. "Scott brings a great deal of energy, enthusiasm and new ideas to the Council, where he can play a key role in farm succession strategies and attracting new people to the industry."
Mr. Dingwell is one of the younger generation involved in Mo Dhaicdh Farms, a family farm operating just east of Morell in the dairy, hog, potatoes and meat bird business. The operation has been recognized with three awards in the past year: the agricultural awareness award from the Federation of Agriculture, the Honourable J. Angus MacLean award for preservation of natural areas, and a 2002 Prince Edward Island Environmental Award for a strong focus on sustainability. Mr. Dingwell is a past chair of the Prince Edward Island Soil and Crop Improvement Association.
The Canadian Farm Business Management Council supports Canadian farm managers through building partnerships and facilitating the development and sharing of innovative business ideas. It is mandated to develop tools and programs to assist farm managers excel in their businesses, and has evolved into a national centre of excellence in farm management. It is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year.