Join us to celebrate the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists!

The United Nations General assembly has designated 2026 as the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP). The purpose of the year is to promote an understanding and appreciation of rangelands around the world and the people who use them.

The College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), in partnership with other units on campus, is celebrating with events planned throughout the year, highlighting the rangeland and pastoralist related research and programs at USask. The events are intended to provide education and outreach to the public in partnership with industry, government and non-government organizations.

Events

Join us for an inspiring evening to kick-off the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists 2026 with a special event at the University of Saskatchewan!

This gathering will bring together a diverse audience of environmental NGOs, livestock producers, academics, university students, Indigenous land managers, rangeland professionals, artists and the public.

The evening will feature:

  • A light reception and networking opportunity
  • Opening remarks highlighting the global significance of rangelands
  • A keynote plenary address by Dr. Andrea Olive (PhD), a leading Canadian voice in environmental policy and conservation
  • A moderated panel discussion exploring governance, management and stewardship in working rangeland landscapes from multiple perspectives

Keynote: 

  • Dr. Andrea Olive (PhD), Professor, University of Toronto Mississauga

Panelists:

  • Renny Grilz, Manager of Conservation at Meewasin Valley Authority 
  • Terry Lerat, ReconciliAG Advisor, National Circle for Indigenous Agriculture & Food 
  • Tara Mulhern Davidson, Beef and Forage Producer 

Wednesday, January 14, 2026
Reception and networking: 6 pm
Keynote and panel discussion: 7 pm

Convocation Hall, USask, 107 Administration Place, Saskatoon, SK

Advancements in Agricultural Research is a seminar series presented by the University of Saskatchewan College of Agriculture and Bioresources a seminar series featuring individuals conducting agricultural research across the University of Saskatchewan.

The next round of seminars will feature USask researchers conducting research related to rangelands.

Join us online learn about the innovative ways our researchers are tackling today's environmental and biotechnological challenges in order to feed a growing and hungry world! 

The seminars are free and open to everyone.