Whole Leaf Ltd. will receive funding for research into reducing fungal root rot. (Photo: Wendy's Restaurants of Canada)

By David Opinko

Research funding announced for Coaldale lettuce grower

Apr 22, 2025 | 9:23 AM

Results Driven Agricultural Research (RDAR) has announced its latest funding recipient for agricultural research.

The non-profit has announced a grant of $229,065 for Whole Leaf Ltd, an indoor, year-round producer of lettuce just east of Coaldale.

The money will be used to develop water management strategies to reduce fungal root rot in leafy greens.

Whole Leaf President Colin Chapdelaine says it will include discovering alternatives to traditional fungicides by optimizing ozone disinfection for recirculating water, as well as using beneficial microorganisms to promote a healthy root system for plants grown in Controlled Environment Agriculture systems.

“Our focus is on enhancing root and plant health through advanced biological and water treatment strategies that improve system performance and resilience,” says Chapdelaine. “By strengthening our ability to grow high-quality produce year-round, this work supports long-term food security in Alberta and Canada. It’s an investment in practical, scalable innovation that reinforces Alberta’s leadership in controlled environment agriculture.”

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RDAR Vice President Clinton Dobson says he is proud to award this funding to Whole Leaf.

“It is vital that viable research into food security is nurtured to further economic growth, sustainability, and keep grocery prices down. Whole Leaf is taking advantage RDAR funding to bring impactful results for all of Alberta’s CEA industry,” says Dobson.

In 2020, Whole Leaf said it could produce 40,000-55,000 heads of lettuce every day. It is also the sole supplier of lettuce for Wendy’s in Canada.

READ MORE: Wendy’s Canada selects Coaldale greenhouse as their sole lettuce provider

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