2025 Board of Directors

Matt joined the board in February 2024 and works full-time at Ruckle Farm, producing and selling beef, lamb, turkey, eggs, and a variety of fruits and vegetables. He previously led the red meat operation at the Salt Spring Abattoir and continues to assist with training. Dedicated to sustainable agriculture, Matt supports mixed farming and works to keep Salt Spring’s agricultural heritage thriving.

Graham has a 35-year career with BC Parks, overseeing the design, construction, and maintenance of facilities across over 200 Provincial Parks. He also coordinated health and safety programs, staff training, and managed commercial permit activities. For the past two years, Graham has volunteered with the Institute on repairs and maintenance of its buildings and grounds.

I'm Chris, and I'm truly honoured to join the Board.

My family and I have called Saltspring home for 25 years, raising our three boys here. My own roots are on a farm in New Brunswick, which instilled in me a lifelong love for plants, fresh food, and biodiversity. I was first introduced to this island and the Institute through the Fall Fair years ago, showcasing vegetables I’d grown while working on an organic farm.

Professionally, I’ve served this community for over two decades as a W.E.T.T. certified technician, installing wood stoves and chimneys . My passions are broad—from farming, foraging, and apothecary to history, woodworking, and organic chemistry.

When I saw the call for new directors, I felt a genuine pull to answer. I believe the time is right to weave together our shared knowledge and heart for this place. I see myself as a bridge-builder and a practical asset, and I’m deeply committed to bringing my full energy and diverse skills to support the Institute’s vital work.

Merv has been involved with the Fall Fair since 1976 and brings experience in farming and engineering from his career with BC Ferries. He manages the restoration of old equipment and acts as a liaison with the SSI Farmers’ Heritage Foundation.

Gail grew up on Salt Spring and raised five children here. She has a lot of experience in all aspects of island life and was self employed as a seamstress for over 45 years. She enjoys gardening, sewing & handicrafts and has spent
over 40 years working with Girl Guides.

She has been involved with the Fall Fair since the 1980’s, is currently Chair of the Fall Fair Committee and joined the Board of Directors in 2026.

Caitlyn has called Salt Spring home for three years, and as a new board member, is excited to dig deeper into the farming community.
She has a background in nutrition, which led her to the understanding that health begins with the food we eat and how that food is grown. She then went on to learn about small scale, regenerative agriculture through KPU’s Richmond Farm School program, and hasn’t looked back since.
Caitlyn came to the island to pursue farming and learn the art of seed saving. She now works with Salt Spring Seeds, stewarding hundreds of heirloom varieties.
Seed and food security is her mission and she looks forward to bringing those practices to life on Salt Spring.

Kerry has been a member of the SSIFI for 28 years and joined the board in 2018, serving as Treasurer. With a background in farming, small business, and bookkeeping, Kerry is also an active volunteer, contributing over 40 years of service to Girl Guides and other community organizations.

Mike has operated Ruckle Farm for many years, producing and selling meat, fruits, and vegetables. He also manages Ruckle Park and has served on several agricultural boards, contributing to the local farming community.

Ron joined the board in February 2024 after retiring from the local waterworks district in 2020. He also served on the Coastal Water Suppliers Board for many years. Ron currently operates a small farm, raising hay, lamb, and eggs.

Dolores became a Salt Springer in 2000 and joined the Board in February 2025 to help maintain the Institute’s buildings and grounds. She has volunteered with various organizations, including the Coast Guard Auxiliary, Ag Alliance, and Island Pathways. Her educational background is in the arts and architecture, and she operated a business in the construction industry and antiques. Growing up in a farming environment, she remains passionate about agriculture and enjoys experimenting with unusual fruit trees and shrubs.