While Erica Pate is on leave until February 2027, Jason Lemay will be filling in as the acting fruit crop specialist responsible for berries. He can be reached at: jason.lemay@Ontario.ca or (519) 410-0624 (same phone number as Erica).

Jason Lemay has a broad background with experience in many different horticulture crops. He completed his MSc at the University of Guelph where he conducted research on integrated pest management (IPM) for insect pests of carrots in the Holland Marsh (MSc). He then spent a few years as an IPM consultant, working with greenhouse floriculture and vegetable growers as well as ornamental nurseries before returning to the University of Guelph to do his PhD. His PhD research focused on IPM for insect pests in cannabis. Recently, he was working at Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association in the Programs Department assisting in the delivery of cost-share funding programs.

He enjoys working with growers to develop practical solutions and supporting innovation in the horticultural sector. He is looking forward to spending the next year supporting the berry industry. 

Source:  ONFruit March 13, 2026 posting