Lakeland College in Vermilion is getting a $1.9-million grant to transition two critical agriculture research programs.
This investment in research will also expand research capacity and teaching opportunities for the next generation of researchers in Alberta.
An agreement is almost complete that will allow the college to grow and leverage its existing research capacity. This will make way for new learning opportunities for instructors and students as well as more collaboration with industry.
The three-year agreement will support Lakeland College to take over pulse agronomy and beef production systems programs in Alberta.
The pulse agronomy program is a mixture of extension and pulse research projects across Alberta that facilitates the growth of the agriculture and food industry and enhances rural sustainability.
The beef production systems program focuses on livestock disease and pathogens, pain mitigation strategies and production efficiency, including beef forage, feed rations and genetics.
“Through these investments in science and research, we are helping to keep our pulse and beef producers on the cutting edge. This agreement with Lakeland College will support producer-led research priorities in these industries, while cultivating the next generation of agriculture researchers. A win-win!” Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
“This agreement is another exciting step for farmer-led research. Agriculture will continue to have a bright future in Alberta with cutting-edge research and research excellence. The pulse and cattle industry will benefit having this research housed at Lakeland College.” Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry
“This agreement supports a new model for agriculture research and increases Lakeland’s capacity to produce results of value and better serve commercial crop and beef producers. We are excited to build on our results-oriented research partnerships with industry while also increasing opportunities for student involvement as they develop applied research skills that will serve them well in the future.” Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, president and CEO, Lakeland College
This agreement is part of the Alberta government’s commitment to ensure farmers and ranchers lead agriculture research priorities. Establishing Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR), an arm’s-length, non-profit corporation, was the first step to ensure research funding priorities are producer led. Over the long term, RDAR will assume ongoing responsibility for funding agreements. Alberta’s government has committed $370 million in provincial funding to agriculture research over the next 10 years.
“Lakeland College continues to be a leader in agriculture research and this new agreement will only bolster that reputation. Under the stewardship of Lakeland, we can be certain that this project will support Alberta’s hard-working farmers and ranchers.” Garth Rowswell, MLA for Vermilion-Lloydminster-Wainwright
“As RDAR interim board chair, in addition to previously announced funding for Olds College, I am delighted that we are now able to support and significantly augment the work being done at Lakeland College. Lakeland College is a very strong post-secondary institution with significant agricultural assets and potential.” Dr. David Chalack, interim board chair, Results Driven Agriculture Research
This investment is made possible by the governments of Canada and Alberta through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership and the Strategic Research and Development Program.
Source : alberta.ca