Students and Dr. Willemijn Appels in the Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm. (Image Credit: Lethbridge Polytechnic)

By David Opinko

Lethbridge Polytechnic signs 20-year land renewal agreement for research farm

Jan 22, 2026 | 2:24 PM

Researchers at a local post-secondary institution will be able to carry on their work for at least the next two decades.

Lethbridge Polytechnic has signed a 20-year land lease renewal agreement with the Alberta Government for its research farm.

It operates a 395-acre research farm east of Lethbridge, which provides hands-on student learning opportunities and allows for research into important issues affecting the agricultural sector.

Dr. Kenny Corscadden, Vice-President of academics and research at Lethbridge Polytechnic, says the field is essential to their research operations.

“Thanks to our partnership with the provincial government, we look forward to enhancing our capacity for student-focused, industry-connected agricultural research,” says Corscadden.

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Lethbridge Polytechnic has been conducting applied research in agriculture for over 35 years, most recently within the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship.

The Polytechnic and the University of Lethbridge were recently named among Canada’s top research schools.

READ MORE: Lethbridge Polytechnic & U of L named top research schools

Alberta Ag Minister RJ Sigurdson says he is proud to support applied agricultural research that delivers real-world solutions for producers, while helping students to learn.

“Renewing this land lease with Lethbridge Polytechnic provides long-term stability for innovative research, strengthens partnerships with industry and helps ensure Alberta remains a leader in agricultural productivity, sustainability and irrigation research,” says Sigurdson.

The lease agreement also includes a provision allowing for the construction of the Cor Van Raay Link Pathway, which will connect Lethbridge and Coaldale.

READ MORE: Phase one of MPE LINK Pathway complete