RDAR invests $5.7 million in Alberta Applied Research Associations

Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) is set to invest $5.7 million to fund the Alberta Applied Research Associations (ARAs) programs.

Currently, there are eight ARA research projects that have been approved for funding through RDAR’s new Accelerating Agricultural Innovations  program, with more proposals expected to be assessed, reviewed, and funded in the upcoming weeks.

Clinton Dobson, director of research for RDAR says there is real excitement surrounding these ARA proposals.

“We are starting to fund projects that will bring research information directly to producers. We are at the beginning stages, and we are keeping the momentum moving by making sure that researchers have the support they need to accelerate Alberta’s agriculture industry,” Dobson says.

In Alberta, the ARAs are unique agriculture research organizations that directly serve the needs of producers in their associated regions. Such local coverage is essential in helping producers access relevant and practical agriculture research solutions to become more competitive globally, says RDAR.

This project announcement will also benefit forage and livestock producers across the province.

“[It will] provide information on innovative, regenerative agriculture practices that protect, preserve, and regenerate healthy soils, water cycles, water resources, pastures, and native range,” says Laura Gibney, manager of the Foothills Forage and Grazing Association. “This increases production, profitability, competitiveness of farms, and improves biodiversity and healthy landscapes for future generations.”

Within the full $5.7M amount invested to date, $4 Million will be distributed across all 12 ARAs to fund daily operational costs and provide resources to implement new methods of increasing efficiencies and streamlining business practices.

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