Our People

Rosemary

The Plant Scientist Behind the Brand

Rosemary Wotske has a biology degree majoring in physiology and biochemistry, and a Master of Science in Plant Genetics. She lived and breathed her farm’s mission statement well before researching land and testing soil. Poplar Bluff Organics was first named Poplar Bluff Farm at its founding in 1985, and is now a two-generation farm.

Rosemary Wotske Founder of Poplar Bluff Organics wearing red sweater
Rosemary Wotske Founder of Poplar Bluff Organics wearing red sweater
Tink the tabby cat sitting on some work on a desk in the farm office
Tink the tabby cat sitting on some work on a desk in the farm office
Tink

In the spirit of "cats are people, too", Tink can often be found on the computer. She wears many farm hats: Chief Mousing Officer, purr factory, morale booster, sack-out artist, and diligent night watch. After all, what's a farm without a cat?

Childhood black & white photo of Cam Beard. founder of Carrots by Cam, riding a hobby horse
Childhood black & white photo of Cam Beard. founder of Carrots by Cam, riding a hobby horse
Cam

The Partner Behind the Expansion

Cam owns our partner farm Carrots by Cam. He grew up on a mixed farm near Indus, AB. Cam discovered at a young age that he would rather fix a tractor and drive it than ride a horse, so it’s no surprise that the farm relies on him to keep the mechanicals humming. Years ago, while helping Rosemary grow and deliver her many organic potatoes, he noticed there was a need for other flavourful and healthy root veggies. Cam’s farm is dedicated to meeting this need, focusing on carrots, beets, and parsnips. Cam works passionately for many hours to maintain the highest standards—and he’s still most at home with “just driving the tractor”.

Derek

Derek’s grandparents farmed barley and cattle west of Red Deer, and as a teen he stayed with them for a few weeks to help bring in the harvest. That short but pivotal stay started him thinking about plants and the equipment to work with them. Moving to Calgary post-bachelor’s degree brought big changes: marriage, family, and work in customer service for a forklift company. In 2018, he pivoted to our farm where he oversees the storage and packing facility. He enjoys the tranquility of watching plants grow, the race to finish once harvest commences, and the steep learning curve of something new every year.

Bob Proctor in work denim, kneeling by a pallet on the ground outside at Poplar Bluff Organics
Bob Proctor in work denim, kneeling by a pallet on the ground outside at Poplar Bluff Organics
Bob

Bob has been working with Poplar Bluff since November 2016. It was quite the departure from a career in retail that spanned 35 years, many of those in management. Bob is great with people and brings his friendly helpfulness to work every day, not to mention his unbeatable work ethic.

a toy figure of a man with a cowboy hat
a toy figure of a man with a cowboy hat
Hunter

Hunter is a great help in the spudhouse where he puts his hands and boundless energy to any task.

Team Mexico

Where would we be without our loyal team of agri-professionals from way down south? We are lucky to welcome back Javier, Yada, and Yada. This year, we welcome new team members Yada and Yada.

A group of men standing next to each other
A group of men standing next to each other
a couple of dogs with their mouths open
a couple of dogs with their mouths open
Triple Tornado Threat

There's a new batch of fur at the farm this year: Dogs and more dogs! Mom, dad and big puppy will announce your arrival with a chorus of barks and a sea of slobbers. (Don't wear your good suit.)

Pic coming soon!
Pic coming soon!

Photo Gallery

A glimpse behind the scenes

I have been buying vegetables from Poplar Bluff [since 2021].
I must say Rosemary's vegetables are the best you can find in AB. Your products are delicious, tasty, and always best quality.
Thank you!! We will keep coming here for as long as you operate!!!
See you soon!

Vlad Lurasco

★★★★★