CCA’s Dennis Laycraft inducted into Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame

The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame has announced its 2025 inductees, honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the agriculture industry.

This year’s inductees are John Anderson, Dori Gingera-Beauchemin, Gaétan Desroches, Joe Hudson, Dennis Laycraft, and Dr. Peter Sikkema.

Phil Boyd, Chair of the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame, emphasizes the importance of recognizing these individuals.

“Each year, we celebrate those who have made impactful contributions across various segments of Canada’s agriculture industry. As our industry continues to innovate and advance, it’s crucial to acknowledge the lifetime achievements of these individuals who have strengthened Canada’s world-class agri-food sector,” explains Boyd. “Our 2025 inductees have excelled in areas such as primary production, value-added and food retail, policy making, commodity organizations, cooperatives, research and extension.”

Meet the 2025 inductees

Dennis Laycraft

Dennis Laycraft has championed Canada’s beef industry for over 40 years, leading the Canadian Cattle Association in opening and defending markets and building critical capacity. He has played key roles in initiatives like the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef (CRSB) and Canada Beef. Laycraft has mentored many to ensure the industry’s export capacity and competitiveness. He lives in Calgary, Alberta, and was nominated by the Canadian Cattle Association (CCA).

John Anderson

John Anderson is a visionary entrepreneur and international business leader who has dedicated 50 years to Oppy, a global fresh produce company. Starting from the warehouse and rising to CEO, Anderson has driven sustainable agriculture and supported local communities. His leadership has led to significant advancements in agricultural practices and distribution methods, earning him global recognition and numerous awards. Anderson lives in West Vancouver, British Columbia, and was nominated by the Honourable Wally Oppal.

Dori Gingera-Beauchemin

Dori Gingera-Beauchemin has dedicated her career to the sustainable development of Manitoba’s agri-food sectors. as a deputy agriculture minister, she ensured policies were responsive to the needs of Canadian farm communities. Her advocacy has led to initiatives such as building public trust, establishing a Research Chair in Sustainable Protein at the University of Manitoba, and increasing opportunities for future generations. Gingera-Beauchemin now helps develop Canada’s first national agri-food sustainability index and operates Beauchemin Family Farm. SHe lives in Ile Des Chenes, Manitoba, and was nominated by Emerging Ag Inc.

Gaétan Desroches

Gaétan Desroches has spent over four decades leading Sollio Cooperative Group, Canada’s largest agricultural cooperative. As CEO, he has fostered innovation and resilience in the agriculture sector, leading strategic mergers and collaborations with Laval University. Desroches has modernized the cooperative model, making it more competitive and Sustainable. He lives in Morin-Heights, Québec, and was nominated by Sollio Cooperative Group.

Joe Hudson

Joe Hudson founded and led Burnbrae Farms for nearly 60 years, transforming Canada’s egg industry with his vision for vertical integration. Under his leadership, Burnbrae became the largest family-owned producer and marketer of eggs and egg products in Canada. Hudson’s passion and determination has driven the company’s growth and success, impacting the larger agricultural industry through partnerships and charitable giving. Hudson lived in Brockville, Ontario, and was nominated by Egg Farmers of Canada.

Dr. Peter Sikkema

Dr. Peter Sikkema is a leading weed scientist who has developed weed management programs for Ontario producers. His research at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus has helped farmers minimize crop yield loss and maximize net return per acre. Sikkema is internationally recognized for his work on herbicide-resistant weeds and has received numerous awards for his research, extension, and teaching. He lives in Ridgetown, Ontario, and was nominated by the Grain Farmers of Ontario.

The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association (CAHFA) honors Canadians for their outstanding contributions to the agriculture and food industry. Portraits of inductees are displayed at the Royal Agricultural Winter Fair in November.