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By Chris Brown

Led by farmers, ranchers

New model for agriculture research in Alberta

Oct 16, 2020 | 2:20 PM

The Alberta government’s agriculture and forestry ministry and Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) have reached a $37-million annual agreement that will prioritize agriculture research projects of particular importance to farmers and ranchers in the province.

“Alberta’s farmers and ranchers told us that they wanted to direct research priorities – not government. We heard that loud and clear, and so this agreement puts them in the driver’s seat,” said Devin Dreeshen, minister of agriculture and forestry, in a release. “RDAR will transform agriculture research in Alberta and help our agriculture sector compete internationally.”

Dr. David Chalack, chair of RDAR said, “this milestone allows RDAR to operate fully, start to fund projects to get the results that matter most to Alberta’s producers, while contributing to a strong, vibrant and profitable agriculture industry in Alberta. RDAR is where big ideas grow.”

RDAR research priorities include:

• Enhanced productivity, profitability and competitiveness
• Sustainable and responsible agricultural production
• Market demands: food safety, quality, value-added products and diversification
• Extension and knowledge transfer

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According to the government, under this new model, agricultural research in Alberta will lead to tangible benefits for farmers, including higher profits, a more abundant food supply at lower cost for Albertans and ultimately a higher quality of life in rural communities.

RDAR has also finalized its initial research priorities and will release a targeted call for proposals.

RDAR was established in March. It is a non-profit producer-led company that operates at arm’s length from the Government of Alberta and determines and funds industry-wide research priorities to enhance producers’ competitive advantage.