david.segonds.org Chronicles of an Agile Software Development Manager

Grain Elevators, the prairie sentinels

Grain Elevators were the link between the farmers of western Canada prairie and the railroad that carried away the grains to towns, ports, and ultimately consumers. We consume grains every day in many forms and in many products without knowing how they are grown or come into our homes. Bread is only one of such products, wheat flour is used in many other consumables from Chinese style seasoning to powder detergents.

Old and abandoned elevators are part of the landscape around Calgary and a group of volunteers, in the town of Nanton are working hard to save the elevators that sit by Highway 2 and goes through Alberta to Montana. Their goal is to create and develop a discovery center to preserve and promote the history and culture of farming, grain elevators and the associated rail roads.

I spent a full day with the board of that organization. As a humble member, I was invited to participate in a strategic planning session facilitated by a great pedagogue who enlighten me on what goes on in the board room of corporations.

I learned a lot, not only about strategic planning, but also about wildlife, rail roads, farming, snow, horses, Canadian constitution, the Crown, and many other topics too numerous to recall. This was a full fledged experience. that gave me more than an insight on the kindness, hospitality, generosity, of the people of Nanton. And of course, I ate too much...

If you are in the area, go check the town. The hotel downtown has live music most nights, the food is great and the people are fun. The antique shops are full of treasures while the landscape towards the foothills is magical...