Long-Term Lease at Lethrbridge Polytechnic Boosts Alberta Farm Research

Lethbridge Polytechnic long-term land agreement strengthens applied agriculture research in Alberta

Lethbridge Polytechnic has signed a new 20-year land lease renewal agreement with the Government of Alberta for its 395-acre research farm located east of Lethbridge. The agreement strengthens a long-standing partnership focused on applied agricultural research and education.

“The Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm is central to our agriculture research operations, supporting innovative projects while providing world-class opportunities for researchers and students alike,” said Dr. Kenny Corscadden, vice-president – academic and research.

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

The research farm plays a key role in supporting hands-on research projects that respond directly to the needs of the agriculture industry. It also provides valuable learning opportunities for students by allowing them to work on real-world challenges alongside researchers and industry partners.

Provincial leaders highlighted that the renewed lease provides long-term stability for applied research that supports farm productivity, sustainability, and irrigation innovation. The agreement helps ensure Alberta remains a leader in agricultural research while also strengthening connections between education and industry.

Lethbridge Polytechnic has been conducting applied agriculture research for more than 35 years. Much of this work is now led through the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship. Recent national rankings placed the polytechnic among the top research colleges in Canada, reflecting continued growth in research capacity and impact.

“Alberta’s government is proud to support applied agricultural research that delivers real-world solutions for producers while creating hands-on learning opportunities for students," said Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson. "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.”

Since 2020, the research farm has been managed under a lease agreement that enabled expanded operations. Research efforts have included precision irrigation studies through a dedicated irrigation research group, helping producers improve water efficiency and crop management.

The farm has also benefited from significant private support. A major donation in 2024 helped strengthen operations and expand learning opportunities for students. These opportunities include course-based learning, research assistant roles, and direct involvement in applied research projects.

In addition to research and education, the lease agreement allows for the development of a multi-use pathway that will connect nearby communities. Overall, the renewed lease supports innovation, education, and collaboration, ensuring the research farm continues to serve producers, students, and the agriculture sector for years to come.