Our Research Programs

Agronomy Research Program

We deliver impactful and innovative agricultural research for western Canadian farmers. Our trials use state-of-the-art, science-based knowledge for small plot research to drive farm level innovation. We practice high-quality agronomy and consult specialists through our extensive industry and research network. Each year, we manage thousands of plots across southern Alberta, making us leaders in agronomic practices under rainfed and irrigated conditions.

We investigate a wide range of crops, including canola, pulses, and hemp, tailored to our region. Our trials feature novel practices like fall-seeded crops, strip tillage, and precision planting to maximize yield while maintaining soil health and limiting wind erosion. We measure crop performance, greenhouse gas emissions, soil nutrients, and soil moisture to optimize nutrient and water use efficiency.

Field Tested Program

This is where the rubber hits the fields.  We often hear that Canada is failing at commercializing its investments in research.  Field Tested is designed to ensure new practices and technologies are scalable and usable at the farm level. It uses adaptive on-farm research to prove value and streamline logistics needed to increase productivity and profitability of commercial farms.

The program works with processors, businesses, growers’ groups, and individual farms to develop opportunities within the value-added irrigated specialty crop industries, including potatoes, fresh peas, sweet corn, seed alfalfa, seed canola, and more.

Commercial Innovation Program

This program delivers unbiased, trusted results through third-party research services. Farming Smarter specializes in testing products for registration, variety suitability, pest management, plant growth regulators (PGRs), biostimulants, nutrients, and agronomic practices.  With over a decade of experience, the program conducts small plot and field-scale trials for companies of all sizes to meet their innovation needs and ensure relevant value to local environments and cropping systems.

Farming Smarter ensures customer satisfaction by providing professional consulting, tailored processes, data collection, analysis, and reporting in a professional and confidential manner.