Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (SPG), in partnership with BASF, honoured Dr. Robert (Bob) Tyler from the University of Saskatchewan by presenting him with the Pulse Promoter Award at their Annual General Meeting in Saskatoon on Monday. Dr. Tyler was recognized for his contribution to the pulse industry through his work in the area of research and development (R&D), specializing in pulse ingredient utilization.
鈥淏ob Tyler has been a long-time member on the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers R&D Committee,鈥� says Tim Wiens, Chair of SPG. 鈥淗e has provided assistance to SPG in the development of R&D priorities, and continually dedicates his time to review and evaluate research project proposals for alignment with our organization鈥檚 goals.鈥�
Dr. Tyler, who is Professor of Food and Bioproduct Sciences and Associate Dean of Research and Graduate Studies in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, has focused 35 years of research on the utilization of pulse crops, with a particular focus on peas. His research group has under taken projects on the modification of pea starch, the extrusion of pea protein concentrate from pea flour, and the manufacturing of pasta, snacks, and breakfast foods from pulse flours, amongst others.
He is a long-time member of the Pulse and Special Crops Committee of the Prairie Grain Development Committee, and currently serves on the Board of Directors for Ag-West Bio and the council of the Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists, in addition to his role as the Chair of the Saskatchewan Agri-Food Council.
鈥淒r. Tyler鈥檚 impact on the industry expands even beyond the organizations and the projects he is directly involved in,鈥� says Carl Potts, Executive Director with SPG. 鈥淗e instills his passion for pulses in everyone he encounters, which has allowed the pulse industry to retain many of his former students who are now actively involved in the pulse research and innovation community.鈥�
Accountable to and funded by growers, SPG鈥檚 strategic direction is guided by a seven member, grower-elected, Board of Directors. SPG鈥檚 mission is to provide leadership and create opportunities for profitable growth for the Saskatchewan pulse industry.
