Rich joined the Board as a part-time governance and tribunal member for a four-year term beginning April 11, 2023. His appointment follows a career with extensive experience in the livestock industry, including 13 years as executive director of Alberta Beef Producers, eight years working in the hog industry, and 16 years as an agricultural engineer with Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation. Rich has also dedicated his time as a member of the Clean Air Strategic Alliance, Ag for Life, the City of Airdrie Municipal Planning Commission, and the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Beef. He also spent many years as a member of the NRCB’s Policy Advisory Group and the NRCB/Agriculture and Irrigation Technical Advisory Group.

Rich was born and raised in the Calgary area and still spends a lot of time with his extended family on their property northwest of the city.  He has a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and a Master of Science in agricultural engineering from the University of Alberta. Rich is a member of the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta and of the Canadian Society for Bioengineering.  Through his education, training, and experience, he has developed detailed knowledge of natural resource management and environmental issues, legislation, policies, and regulations.

Rich’s personal interests include sports and physical activities (cycling, hockey, hiking, golf, cross country skiing, curling), reading, and enjoying time with his grandchildren.