Lethbridge (Rural Roots Canada) – Twelve applied research associations across Alberta will share $3.2 million in provincial funding aimed at strengthening agricultural research and improving producer competitiveness.
The one-time grant from the provincial government will be used for equipment upgrades, facility improvements, and infrastructure enhancements. RJ Sigurdson, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation for Alberta, says the investment reflects the province’s ongoing support for practical, science-based innovations in farming.
“Applied research associations play a vital role in supporting farmers and ranchers with top-notch research that helps improve and advance agriculture,” says Sigurdson. “This funding helps ensure associations can concentrate on providing research and extension to help our producers adopt new technologies and practices and improve their competitiveness by addressing their most pressing capital equipment issues.”
Applied research associations act as vital links between scientific research and everyday farm operations. They conduct trials, test new technologies, and provide hands-on learning for producers.
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Alan Hall, executive director of the Agriculture Research Extension Council of Alberta, says the funding will help extend the life of critical infrastructure while improving the quality of research and reducing operational costs.
“This will go a long way in helping have the equipment we need to continue our applied research and extension work with producers to assist them in adapting research results, technologies and practices into their farming and ranching business operations,” says Hall.
The money will also support the purchase of essential farm equipment. From seeders to swathers, tractors to irrigation systems, and portable research units, the upgrades are expected to expand the reach and impact of applied research programs across the province.
Ken Coles, executive director of Farming Smarter, explains the broader impact the funding will have on the province’s agri-food sector.
“The applied research capital grants will empower organizations like Farming Smarter to deliver substantial returns on investment by driving innovation and supporting the growth of value-added industries,” he says. “As a world-class research and innovation organization, Farming Smarter is now even better positioned to accelerate progress and enable transformative advancements across Alberta’s agri-food sector.”
The 12 associations receiving funding include:
