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Robyn McCallum began her studies at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, graduating in 2013 with a BSc. (Agr.) in Animal Science. Not only was she a part of the first class to graduate from the new Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture, but she was also president of the Students’ Union (now Dalhousie Agricultural Students’ Association) at the time of merger. Robyn continued her studies, obtaining her PhD (Biology) through Dalhousie University.

Robyn’s experience in agriculture is well-versed – she worked on a native bee project in wild blueberries, in NS, which she turned into her fourth-year project, her PhD thesis and then early career. Simultaneously, Robyn and her husband, train and show Belgian draft horses at competitions, across the Maritimes and farm at their home in northeastern NB.

Robyn became a new mother, during the early days of the pandemic, as she and her husband welcomed Emmett to the farm (and barn). She was then ready to be closer to home and take on a new challenge. In January 2021, Robyn became the president of the Miramichi Salmon Association, overseeing research and conservation programs for Atlantic Salmon on the Miramichi River- one of the greatest salmon runs in the world.

“Before the pandemic and becoming a mother, I was working all over Atlantic Canada, as a bee researcher, a role I really enjoyed,” says Robyn. “There is a ton of overlap between bee research and salmon conservation that I never expected, but really enjoy.”  

Some days Robyn is in the field conducting a population estimate or restoring a cold-water pool. Other days she is coordinating an invasive species project, applying for funding, working with her hatchery team to introduce new technology, meeting with government representatives about policy, working with members on a fundraising project, or coordinating education programs.

Everyday is different, but there’s also no shortage of challenges.

“Whether it’s food production or conservation, public trust is a challenge I continue to work on as part of my job,” says Robyn. “Communication and bridging groups are other major challenges. One challenge that I enjoy is recognizing most groups share similar values, and working to connect and support those shared values, even though we may start from different positions.”

Robyn was elected life president of her graduating class in 2013.  She also serves as chair for the Faculty of Agriculture Alumni Association Board of Directors.

Why is agriculture so important to you?

Agriculture is important to me because I see so much opportunity for those interested in feeding our growing population. More than ever, we need diverse minds working together to navigate the endless challenges facing this sector. I think there’s room for anyone who wants to be involved in agriculture.

What are some of the biggest challenges facing the industry today?

If you asked me this six months ago, my answer would probably be division among sectors, the aging demographic, welcoming and supporting the next generation who may not want to farm the way previous generations did, mental health, building and maintaining public trust, etc. My answer right now is more immediate- the sky rocketing cost of food production, sourcing critical inputs, fuel costs- in general, the rising cost of doing business. I think there’s a movement within the industry for farmers to have more stable incomes and healthier family lives, and these latest challenges do not help those initiatives.

Taking you back to your undergrad days, what was your initial reaction to the announcement that NSAC would merge with Dalhousie University, becoming the Faculty of Agriculture?

I had a mixed reaction. I was one of those students who valued the Dalhousie brand and thought the merger would give the school more recognition of its ‘Dal degrees’, even before the merger.

I was worried that the farm on campus could be negatively impacted, and that tuition would increase. As student president, I was worried our campus values and successful programs, or initiatives may be superseded by existing Dal programs or policies.

Looking back, how do you feel now?

I look back on the merger, much more positively. Although there were growing pains, this merger opened many doors and opportunities for students and faculty. I think it positions the faculty more strategically to meet global and modern challenges. It allowed us to see the benefits of being part of something larger, but also recognize the strengths of a smaller school, and how we could hang on to those.

How has the campus most changed in the last 10 years?

I think the campus has maintained its personal and practical feel. The campus has learned to hang on to the aspects that make it special, but also embrace new opportunities through the merger with Dalhousie.

The Agricultural Campus is a pretty special and unique place, as we hear over and over. What’s your favourite characteristic of the Agricultural Campus?

The personal touch and feel of the campus. I loved being in small classes where profs knew my name, the kind and knowledgeable nature of staff, the beautiful gardens, and the history of the school.