The TACLP’s applied research at Pitstra Farm will help validate the efficacy of Union Forage and AdvancedAg Inc.’s products in improving productivity and environmental sustainability in tame and native pastures in Western Canada. It will also help Wyvern Inc. and Carbon Asset Solutions Ltd. develop and validate remote carbon monitoring technologies with the potential to increase rancher access to carbon credit programs.
“The TACLP at Olds College is addressing the critically important issues of environmental sustainability and climate change resiliency,” says Sean Thompson, Manager of the Olds College TACLP. “We’ve been conducting great research on the Smart Farm with rotational grazing and regenerative agriculture practices in the last few years, and look forward to continuing the research in Pitstra with this ARTP grant and industry partners. The TACLP continues to support the development, optimization and validation of innovative on-farm technologies and practices in order to enhance producer viability, productivity and sustainability.”
One key outcome of applied research at Olds College is independent, unbiased information for technology innovators, agricultural producers, agronomists, and other industry stakeholders on the functionality and value of agriculture technologies, processes, and practices. The ARTP grants announced from NSERC — $46.9 million over two years for 74 grants — will foster applied research partnerships between Canadian colleges, polytechnics, and small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to help these businesses seize new opportunities and address real-world challenges.
“Science and innovation lead to a stronger and more resilient economy. As a government we will always be there to support small and medium-sized businesses as they adopt new technologies, and our college sector plays a crucial role in supporting these businesses,” says The Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry.
“This additional support from the Government of Canada is a testament to the value of colleges, CEGEPs and polytechnics and how they contribute to Canadian innovation – from exceptional applied research expertise and training experience, to outstanding facilities and equipment,” says Alejandro Adem, President, NSERC. “On behalf of the tri-agencies, congratulations to the successful colleges who will benefit from this special investment that will help their students, local businesses and communities thrive.”
Olds College Brewery Partners with Niagara College to Improve Canadian Craft Beer with ARTP Grant
Olds College is also involved with an ARTP grant for nearly $1.8 million awarded to Niagara College to lead a project supporting the Canadian craft brewing industry by improving quality assurance and control measures in small to medium-sized breweries. The funds will be used to collaboratively develop a Craft Brewer Quality program in partnership with 16 breweries across New Brunswick, Ontario and Alberta — including Olds College Brewery. At every step, students will be trained alongside industry partners, exemplifying work-integrated learning and capacity building for the businesses. Read Niagara College’s media release for more information on this project.
To learn more about the ARTP grants, read NSERC’s media release. Check out the complete list of Applied Research and Technology Partnership grant recipients.
