Over 100 Farming Smarter trials and projects planned for record-breaking 2026

“This year’s potato program includes more than a dozen trials that will support our potato industry by generating reliable local information,” says Research Manager Lewis Baarda.

Farming Smarter has recently acquired a new potato topper for vine management, multiple climate-controlled potato storage units, and enhancements to their potato planter to make it more suitable for research.

Officials further note that an irrigated pulse crop project is slated to begin in 2026 as Farming Smarter attempts to make use of the underutilized tool.

“We are really trying to get a better idea of how to maximize their potential,” says Research Scientist Thierry Fonville. “The project will help develop sustainable practices that can lead to reduced fertilizer use, in combination with reducing soil erosion by implementing strip tillage.”

Fonville will also be participating in a reduced irrigation allocation management project for spring wheat.

The project aims to help producers plan for droughts as water restrictions for farmers and municipalities become more frequent in the warmer months.

Farming Smarter will also be working with GS Dunn for a third year as they aim to add insight to mustard agronomy in Southern Alberta.

“This is a record year for us, and we are very excited for that. It means that companies understand the value and importance of the work that we do,” says Trevor Deering, research associate with Farming Smarter’s Commercial Innovation program.

Farming Smarter is the largest agriculture hub in Alberta and conducts more research trials than all post-secondary institutions in Alberta combined.

by Nathaniel Leigh

Over 100 Farming Smarter trials and projects planned for record-breaking 2026

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