Dr. Eric Shelley has been chosen executive director of the Ontario Organic Council, taking over from Carolyn Young who held the position for nine years.
Dr. Shelley has been chief executive officer for Best for Bees.
“Her pioneering work in bee vectoring and biological controls has focused on improving bee and crop health, establishing her as a recognized leader in sustainable beekeeping and organic farming,” the council said.
“Through her close work with farmers across Ontario on pollinator consultation projects, Dr. Shelley has gained a deep understanding of the complexities of agriculture, enabling her to effectively address the challenges and opportunities in the organic sector.”
The council praised Young who “has shepherded OCO through a critical growth period, strengthened our community, and fostered partnerships that have significantly advanced the organic sector in Ontario. We wish her all the best in her future endeavours.”