For Daniel Sanders, seed growing isn’t just a job—it’s a legacy rooted in three generations of family farming. Since taking over the family farm near Manitou, Man., in 1986, Sanders has dedicated his life to producing top-quality seed and contributing to the betterment of the agricultural community. That dedication earned him the 2025 Outstanding Service Award from the Manitoba Seed Growers’ Association (MSGA) last night in Winnipeg.
Sanders’ family farm, originally purchased by his grandfather in 1947, now spans 4,100 acres. It’s a mixed-cropping operation focused on pedigree wheat, oats, and soybeans, with commercial canola serving as a break crop. “The value-added aspect of seed growing really appealed to me,” Sanders shares. “It’s satisfying to grow higher-pedigree crops that farmers can use next year—knowing that quality starts here, on our farm.”
A critical part of the operation is the seed cleaning plant, which has been running since the mid-1980s. Sanders has even passed this passion for agriculture down to his family; the farm is a team effort, with his dad and eldest son working alongside him, while his other children pitch in during busy seasons.
A Voice for the Seed Industry
Over the past 40 years, Sanders has become a prominent figure in Canada’s seed industry. A recipient of the CSGA’s 40-Year Long Service Certificate, he’s been a steadfast advocate for seed growers during a time of significant change. His 14 years on the MSGA board, including a term as president, coincided with transformative moments, such as the merger of legacy seed associations into Seeds Canada. He also served as president during the COVID-19 pandemic, a challenging time for seed industry groups like MSGA which couldn’t hold in-person meetings.
“During my time with the MSGA, I saw firsthand how much potential this industry has,” Sanders says. “Seed growers are at the start of the process for new varieties. We grow the higher pedigrees first, and not every variety makes it to market. But without seed growers, there’s no one to promote and refine these new varieties.”
Sanders was a regular attendee at Prairie Grain Development Committee variety registration meetings, where he represented seed growers faithfully. Even during the COVID-19 lockdown, when in-person networking was impossible, Sanders remained committed to building relationships across the sector. “The future of the industry holds a lot of promise,” he says. “With more companies entering the space, there are more varieties to work with, which keeps things exciting.”
A Life of Service
Sanders’ commitment to the seed industry is matched only by his dedication to his community. For 28 years, he has volunteered as a firefighter in Manitou and has been part of Ground Search and Rescue since 1999. Additionally, he has served as a director of the Boundary Railroad Company for 15 years and is currently the president of the Kinsmen Club of Manitou.
Despite his busy schedule, Sanders prioritizes family. Married to Michelle for 32 years, the couple has six children—Stephanie, Leah, Dylan, Nathan, Shawn, and Justin. Sanders even missed just one MSGA board meeting during his 14-year tenure—because it coincided with his son’s wedding.
Facing the Challenges of Modern Farming
Like many in the industry, Sanders is acutely aware of the economic pressures farmers face. With input costs rising and grain prices fluctuating, he recognizes the delicate balance needed to keep farming viable. “I don’t think prices for crops can drop too drastically—otherwise, there’ll be no money in farming at all,” he says. “It’s not always easy, but the work we do matters. We’re creating the foundation for better crops and better farming.”
As Sanders reflects on his journey, his contributions to the seed industry stand out as a testament to his dedication, resilience, and love for farming. “Farmers need seed growers,” he says. “We’re the ones at the start of the process, growing the best quality we can for someone else to succeed next year. That’s something to take pride in.”
