A key Federal/Provincial funding agreement was announced this week for Lakeland College at Vermillion.
The three year, $1.9 million dollar grant will go to transition two agriculture research programs.
The agreement will see Lakeland College take over pulse agronomy and the beef production system programs in the Province.
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.
Federal Ag Minister Marie Claude Bibeau says 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!"
Devin Dreeshen, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry says the 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."
Dr. Alice Wainwright-Stewart, President and CEO of Lakeland College says the 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."
The new agreement is part of the Province's commitment to ensure farmers and ranchers lead agricultural research priorities.
Funding for the announcement comes from the Canadian Agricultural Partnership and the Strategic Research and Development Program.
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