Wake up with RealAg

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.

The Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) board of directors has announced a new general manager.

Brenna Mahoney will join Manitoba’s main general farm organization effective June 14, 2021.

In a news release issued May 6, KAP notes Mahoney has experience with national coalitions and partnerships focused on advancing grain nutrition, healthy farm practices, market access, public trust, and sustainability.

“I am very pleased to welcome Brenna to our organization,” says Bill Campbell, president of KAP. “She brings with her a wealth of agricultural and communications experience that will build on the strong foundation we have at KAP.”

Before joining KAP, Mahoney was director of communications and stakeholder relations for Cereals Canada. She was also a steering committee member for the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops (CRSC) and supported the development of CRSC’s code of practice.

Mahoney is also a board member for the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame and Farmers Abroad Canada. She was formerly the chair of the Healthy Grains Institute.

“I am excited to work for Manitoba’s agricultural producers,” says Mahoney. “Agriculture is a key economic driver and there are many opportunities for sustained growth through collaboration across the sector.”

She replaces Patty Rosher, who was appointed assistant chief commissioner of the Canadian Grain Commission by Agriculture Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau in December 2020.