Lethbridge college signs 15-year MOU with Farming Smarter

Lethbridge College students visit Farming Smarter during the McDalBridge competition in September 2019. (Lethbridge College/supplied)

Collaboration is key when it comes to getting things done; when you have two organizations working towards one goal, that’s even better. Lethbridge College and Farming Smarter have announced they’ve signed a 15-year memorandum of understanding (MOU) to work together on a variety of projects.

The agreement will mean the two sides will examine opportunities that will support the entire agriculture industry in southern Alberta and throughout the province. The MOU has three core pillars – applied research and innovation; education, training and knowledge transfer; and communication and branding.

“This is an exciting opportunity to really look at the strengths of both the college and Farming Smarter and how we can leverage those strengths into new opportunities,” says Dr. Paula Burns, Lethbridge College president and CEO. “Our two organizations have worked together in the past on innovative and important projects that support agricultural research, education, and student success. We look forward to new opportunities that will be possible because of this agreement.”

The MOU will encourage and clear pathways for further collaboration between the college and Farming Smarter, including the sharing of projects, equipment, technology, and resources. The organizations will work together to find mutual funding opportunities, co-host educational and networking events, and create research projects that can use the expertise of agricultural research scientists, educators, and students from both sides.

“The agriculture industry is a huge part of southern Alberta’s economy and employs a lot of people in the region,” says Ken Coles, Farming Smarter executive director. “Farming Smarter supports innovation, entrepreneurship, and the practical application of science and technology in the industry and particularly on-farm. This partnership will keep farmers, ag business, and graduates competitive, connected, and thriving.”

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