People Involved

Joel has an eclectic background that has taken him in many different directions. Looking back, many of the signposts now align with his role at Farmland Legacies. He has an educational background in Sociology, Theology, Agriculture, and Governance. He's worked extensively in the non-profit and co-operative sectors, both as a volunteer and a staff member.

He and his wife Cheryl spent 15 years living on and managing the family farm near Mossbank, SK, growing organic crops and raising grassfed beef. And, just for fun, they spent a few years running a farm-to-table restaurant featuring beef from their ranch.

Outside of work, Joel volunteers with several food and land-based initiatives and coaches club volleyball.

Steve has been part of the team since late 2011 and keeps a sharp eye out for the details that help the organization run smoothly. He also handles the food programs operated by Farmland Legacies.

Raised in small-town Saskatchewan with deep family farming roots, Steve believes in the community and family-building benefits of agriculture. Steve loves to hike, write, and spend time with his wife and kids.

Duane is the founding director of Farmland Legacies. He left Farm Credit Canada (FCC) to pursue a dream by creating an alternative way of looking at land ownership and how humanity relates to mother earth.

Duane grew up on the family farm near Radisson SK, obtained his degree in Agricultural Economics from the University of Saskatchewan, and spent 12 years with FCC. That background prepared him to answer the call of the spirit and venture out into the reality which Farmland Legacies has become.

When not busy with work, Duane enjoys curling, reading, nature, and travelling — especially in the winter.

Rosellen grew up on a farm northwest of Mozart SK where her family raised livestock and grew grain. After marrying and moving to the Wynyard area, Rosellen has lived in the same farmyard for over 45 years.

She learned about Farmland Legacies several years ago when a nephew was introduced to the cow/calf “loan” operation in place at the time. In 2018 she joined the board. Rosellen is a Licensed Lay Worship Leader with the United Church of Canada.

Rosellen brings her knowledge of living in a farming area and a desire to see farms stay sustainable — fair farming prices, nutritious chemical-free food, and farmers receiving what they are due.

Serena lives in Regina, where she was born and raised. Since her teenage years she has had an interest in both agriculture and food sovereignty.

Her first connection with Farmland Legacies was as a volunteer in 2014. Since then, she and her husband Matt have had a variety of internships on several different farms. Since 2020 she has been growing a large country garden in the Indian Head region.

When she isn't gardening, Serena teaches yoga, loves learning languages, and sings as both a chorister and a soloist.

Ben, along with his wife Lisa, their three children, and his parents, operate a small mixed farm near Lanigan, Saskatchewan. They grow a full suite of vegetables in their market garden and raise pigs, chickens, and cattle.

Before returning to the family farm, Ben studied theology and politics, worked for Winnipeg food banks, and volunteered with refugee resettlement. This led to an interest in sustainable and regenerative agriculture as well as equitable food distribution.

Ben's first interaction with Farmland Legacies was through a Heifer International-sponsored livestock program in 2011. Soon after, he became a board member.

Jeremy grew up on a small mixed farm in the Interlake region of Manitoba. He left the farm to study business in Winnipeg while taking electives on environment and sustainability.

During that time he volunteered at food banks and soup kitchens, engaged with community gardeners, and did research for a community composting service. After moving to Saskatchewan, Jeremy was inspired by the vision of Farmland Legacies to alleviate hunger with deep respect for both land and community.

After hours, Jeremy enjoys playing ultimate frisbee, listening to podcasts, reading, and helping his wife in the garden.