Lethbridge Polytechnic is celebrating an agreement with the provincial government that continues to make an impact.
Last summer, the post-secondary institution signed a 20-year land lease renewal agreement with the Alberta government for its 395-acre research farm, which is located east of the city. The hub is used for applied agricultural research operations.
“The Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm is central to our agriculture research operations, supporting innovative projects while providing world-class opportunities for researchers and students alike,” says Dr. Kenny Corscadden, vice-president – academic and research. “Thanks to our partnership with the provincial government, we look forward to enhancing our capacity for student-focused, industry-connected agricultural research.”
Meanwhile, Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson says the research helps to deliver “real-world solutions for producers” while creating new, hands-on learning experiences for students.
“Renewing this land lease with Lethbridge Polytechnic provides long-term stability for innovative research, strengthens partnerships with industry and helps ensure Alberta remains a leader in agricultural productivity, sustainability and irrigation research,” Sigurdson adds.
The renewed lease agreement with the province includes a provision that allows for the building of the multi-use MPE LINK Pathway, connecting Lethbridge to Coaldale.
READ MORE: Grand opening held for phase one of MPE LINK Pathway
For over three decades, the polytechnic has been conducting applied research in agriculture, most recently with the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship, also known as CARIE.
CARIE has managed operations on the research farm since 2020 as part of the initial lease agreement with the provincial government. Since then, capacity and research capabilities have been expanded for precision irrigation projects through the Mueller Irrigation Research Group.
Additionally, the post-secondary celebrated a $2.8 million donation from the estate of Joe and Laverna Hranac toward research at the farm.
READ MORE: $2.8 million donation announced for agriculture research at Lethbridge Polytechnic
