The Alberta government has announced funding to enhance agricultural research and boost the competitiveness of the province’s producers.
Applied research associations, which bridge the gap between scientific research and practical farming applications, will benefit from this investment.
These organizations provide learning opportunities, conduct trials to improve crop and soil quality, manage pests, and protect the environment.
Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson emphasized the government’s commitment to free and unbiased research, stating that the funding will allow associations to focus on delivering research and extension services that help producers adopt new technologies and practices.
This support will enable associations to address critical capital equipment needs, extend the life of facilities, and improve the quality of applied research and extension activities.
Alan Hall, executive director of the Agriculture Research Extension Council of Alberta, expressed gratitude for the capital funding, noting that it will significantly aid farmer-led associations in acquiring necessary equipment to continue their applied research and extension work.
Similarly, Ken Coles, executive director of Farming Smarter, highlighted that the funding empowers organizations to drive innovation and support the growth of value-added industries, positioning them to accelerate progress in Alberta’s agri-food sector.
This investment will assist associations in purchasing essential equipment such as seeders, tractors, swathers, irrigation systems, and portable facilities, ensuring Alberta producers remain among the most competitive globally.
- Alberta has 12 Applied Research Associations spread across the province:
- Battle River Research Group Society
- Central Alberta Forage and Livestock Association
- Chinook Applied Research Association
- Farming Smarter Association
- Foothills Forage and Grazing Association
- Gateway Research Organization
- Lakeland Agricultural Research Association
- Mackenzie Applied Research Association
- North Peace Applied Research Association
- Peace Country Beef and Forage Association
- SARDA Ag Research Association
- Farming Forward (West-Central Forage Association)
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
