January 15, 2025 (Saskatoon, SK) – The pulse industry is celebrating the achievements of trailblazer Vicki Dutton, a farmer from Paynton, Sask., who has been awarded the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (SPG) Pulse Promoter Award. Recognized for her transformative contributions to the pulse sector and her enduring commitment to innovation and advocacy, Dutton has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry’s success.
Dutton Farms, operated by Dutton and her family, was among the first in Western Canada to incorporate pulse crops into its rotation in the 1970s. Since 1974, she has been a long-time seed grower through Dutton Farms Partnership, specializing in producing high-quality pulse seeds, cementing her reputation as a trusted partner in the pulse value chain. Her leadership extended to her role as an owner of Western Grain, a processor and exporter that has driven market development and fostered grain trade connections globally.
Dutton’s influence includes six years of service on the SPG Board of Directors, during which helped guide the organization’s research and market development. She also served on the Pulse Canada Board and the Western Standards Committee for the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC).
“Vicki Dutton’s contributions to the pulse industry are extensive,” said Winston van Staveren, SPG Board Chair. “Her pioneering spirit, innovative approach, and dedication to collaboration have built her legacy in Canadian agriculture.”
Today, Dutton Farms champions innovation through partnerships, for example, with Protein Industries Canada, Lovingly Made Flour Mills, and TMRW Foods. Dutton Farms exemplifies the critical role of pulses in sustainable food solutions by focusing on advancing pea and faba bean protein in this collaborative project for new meat alternative products.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dutton advocates for the pulse industry, championing variety development, research initiatives, and policy advancements to strengthen the sector. Her efforts inspire others to recognize the potential of pulses in global agriculture and food systems.
“I am truly honoured to receive the Pulse Promoter Award, but this recognition is not mine alone—it belongs to my family, many farmers, researchers, and industry partners who have shared this journey with me,” said Vicki Dutton. “Together, we have worked to grow more than crops. I am grateful for my opportunities and look forward to seeing what we can achieve together in the years ahead.”
The Pulse Promoter Award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to developing Saskatchewan’s pulse industry in production, marketing, promotion, research, extension, processing, management, and innovation.
Accountable to and funded by growers, SPG’s strategic direction is guided by a nine-member, grower-elected Board of Directors. SPG’s mission is to provide leadership for profitable growth for Saskatchewan pulses.
For more information, please contact:
Amanda Carlson
Communications Manager
Saskatchewan Pulse Growers
Phone: 306-668-0116
Email: acarlson@saskpulse.com
Amber Johnson
Director of Marketing and Communications
Saskatchewan Pulse Growers
Phone: 306-668-3668
Email: ajohnson@saskpulse.com