Growing up on a mixed farm, berry picking and gardening were part of everyday life. Some of the most cherished memories come from spending time in the raspberry patch with family — moments that nurtured a deep appreciation for nature and the outdoors. These early experiences planted the seeds of a lifelong passion for agriculture and inspired a strong desire to farm alongside family.
Discovering a Passion for Fruit Production
While working on the family farm, a particular interest in fruit cultivation began to flourish. Experiments with blue honeysuckle (haskap), sea buckthorn, apples, cherries, and chokecherries soon followed on a personal farm in Birch Hills. This curiosity expanded into agroforestry initiatives and demonstration projects involving hybrid poplar and Siberian larch. Over time, horticulture and agroforestry gradually replaced more traditional agricultural ambitions, shaping a clear direction toward specialty crop production.
Education, Research & Industry Experience
A significant portion of the past decade was dedicated to volunteering with the University of Saskatchewan’s Fruit Development Program. The knowledge, mentorship, and industry relationships built during this period provided both technical expertise and the confidence to formally enter the fruit industry.
This commitment to learning continued through the Prairie Horticultural Certificate, completed in March 2009 with a specialization in greenhouse crop production — further strengthening the foundation in plant science and controlled-environment growing.
Founding Haskap Central & Orchard Development
In 2007, together with close associates, Haskap Central Sales Ltd. was established as a licensed haskap propagation and sales company. Around the same time, Northern Light Orchards Ltd. was created to focus on cultivating and supplying premium haskap fruit. These ventures marked the beginning of a dedicated mission to grow, research, and distribute high-quality haskap plants and berries.
A Family-Driven Vision
Family has always been at the heart of the journey. Alongside wife Leslie and children Kaylee and Donovan, the former Domtar (Weyerhaeuser) Seed Orchard and greenhouse near Henribourg, Saskatchewan, Canada, was acquired. This location became home to Living Sky Growers Ltd. orchard and greenhouse, as well as the central base of Haskap Central Sales Ltd. — creating a unified space for innovation, cultivation, and customer service.
Curtis Braaten
Leslie Braaten
Commitment to Quality & Service
Professional experience spans many areas of the food industry, including production, processing, preparation, and service. This hands-on background contributes to a strong understanding of quality standards and customer expectations, ensuring that every plant and product delivered meets high levels of care and reliability.
Full-Time Dedication to Growth
In June 2013, the decision was made to leave the role of Research Manager at the Conservation Learning Centre to focus entirely on expanding orchard operations and business development. By 2014, Leslie and her partner became the sole owners of Haskap Central Sales Ltd., allowing for complete dedication to advancing the company’s vision — providing premium haskap plants, expert guidance, and exceptional service to growers across the region and beyond.