FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 4, 2026, Ottawa, ON – Fertilizer Canada is pleased to announce the appointment of James Wirth, Director of Energy and External Affairs at K+S Potash Canada (KSPC), as Chair of its Board of Directors. Stephen Jonkhans, General Manager at CF Industries, has been appointed Vice-Chair.
Wirth has served on the Board for nearly five years, including serving on the Executive Committee and as Chair of the Planning and Budget Committee. He was appointed Vice-Chair in 2025.
“Canada’s fertilizer sector is an economic engine that supports food security and Canadian trade,” says Wirth. “As Chair, I look forward to advancing our strategic plan and strengthening the conditions for the industry to compete and invest.”
“James brings thoughtful insights and consistently raises considerations that strengthen our discussions and decisions,” says Michael Bourque, President and CEO of Fertilizer Canada. “His knowledge and perspective help shape our strategic direction, and I look forward to working with him as Board Chair.”
Wirth succeeds Casper Kaastra, CEO of Sollio Agriculture, who will leave Sollio Agriculture at the end of 2026. Rene Chouinard, Vice-President, Supply Chains at Sollio Agriculture, will replace Kaastra on the board.
“Casper has been an excellent Chair, guiding the development of Fertilizer Canada’s 2026–2030 Strategic Plan,” says Bourque. “We thank him for his leadership and dedication to the association and the industry and wish him every success in his next chapter.”
Wirth’s experience in energy markets, fertilizer production and external relations gives him a strong understanding of the industry’s operating environment. A former commodities trader, he joined KSPC more than 11 years ago with a focus on natural gas and energy supply and has expanded his responsibilities to include external relations. He was also an original member of the Saskatchewan Technology Fund Advisory Committee.
Fertilizer Canada’s 2026-2027 Board of Directors includes: James Wirth, K+S Potash Canada; Dale Matchett, Richardson International; Lindsay Kaspick, Koch Fertilizer Canada, ULC; Stephen Jonkhans, CF Industries; Matt Conacher, Federated Co-Operatives Limited; Brad Dempsey, J.R. Simplot; Marnel Jones, The Mosaic Company; John Mackinnon, Cavendish Agri Services; Cassandra Loomans, Sylvite Holdings Inc.; Matthew Rosgen, Cargill Ltd.; Kelly Davey, Nutrien; Mandy Huska, Yara North America; Rene Chouinard, Sollio Agriculture; and Michael Bourque, Fertilizer Canada.
About Fertilizer Canada
Fertilizer Canada represents producers, manufacturers, importers, wholesale and retail distributors of nitrogen, phosphate, potash and sulphur fertilizers. The fertilizer industry plays an essential role in Canada’s economy, contributing over $42 billion annually and employing over 118,000 workers throughout the supply chain. We are committed to supporting the industry through innovation, stewardship, safety and security. As the foundation of Canada’s agri-food sector, we apply innovative solutions that positively impact agriculture, the economy, and the social fabric of Canadian life.
Media Contact:
Kayla FitzPatrick
Senior Director of Communications
Fertilizer Canada
kfitzpatrick@fertilizercanada.ca
(613)979-8723
