By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter)

Federal Government Invests in Agricultural Infrastructure Across Canada – Including Lethbridge

Jun 16, 2016 | 1:28 PM

OTTAWA:  The federal government is plowing investment dollars into the country’s agriculture sector to strengthen and improve existing facilities.

As part of Budget 2016, Agriculture Minsiter Lawrence MacAulay has announced a $37.6 million investment in Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) to modernize a number of AAFC research stations and laboratories in British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario, and Quebec. 

Among the Alberta facilities to benefit, is the Lethbridge Research Centre.

The upgrades will include improvements to food safety and food processing; new efficient growth chambers in a number of centres to help scientists conduct important plant and crop research; and energy efficiency at facilities to reduce their environmental footprint.

Of the total $37.6 Million investment, $6.7 Million will be used for Science infrastructure modernization and rehabilitation. Of that $6.7 Million, $2.8 Million has been designated for the Lethbridge Research and Development Centre, which supports research into sustainable crop and beef production systems. The funds will increase the Centre’s capacity, in order to accommodate new field programs and expanded research activities.

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As well, the Lethbridge Research Centre will share $6.2 Million with research centres in Lacombe and Harrow, Ontario for roof replacements.

In a news release, Minister MacAulay noted the importance of the funding.

“This funding highlights the Government of Canada’s commitment to increasing Canada’s scientific excellence. Having the right research infrastructure and equipment strengthens AAFC’s science capacity, and its ability to serve the agricultural sector and helps it be more competitive in a global economy.”