John Alfred Toogood

John Toogood began teaching at Bassano after receiving his Bachelor of Science degree. Toogood attended the University of Minnesota four years later, earning his Ph.D. In 1948 he accepted a position with the Soils Department at the University of Alberta, where he remained until his retirement in 1978. 

Dr. Toogood spent 30 years at the University of Alberta Soil Sciences Department working to improve agricultural production through research into soil testing and fertility, erosion control, production systems and agrometeorology. His outstanding record of activity with the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (A.I.A.) began in 1951 as Treasurer of the Edmonton Branch. In 1967–68 he held the position of President of the A.I.A; 1968–69 Past -President; and from 1974–78 he served as Vice-President of the International Society of Soil Science and Chairman of the Local Arrangements Committee for the 11th International Society of Soil Science Congress held in Edmonton in June 1978. 

His water erosion research was the first of its kind in Alberta and several of his extension bulletins and booklets were landmark publications. 

Due to his foresight, the Breton Soil Fertility Plots, a critical tool used to gauge long-term agricultural practices on land, were saved from abandonment and further developed. He was recognized with five professional honours including the Professional Recognition Award from the A.I.A. in 1974 and a Fellowship in A.I.C. His contributions were a valuable resource to the Alberta Institute of Agrologists. On November 11th, 1998, Toogood passed away at the age of 83 years.