The Lacombe Research and Development Centre (LRDC) Joint Task Force is disappointed by the federal government’s decision not to revisit the closure of the LRDC following recommendations made by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food.

While the decision is disheartening, members of the Task Force note that it was not wholly unexpected and remain optimistic that opportunities still exist to preserve agricultural research capacity in Lacombe.

“The federal government's decision not to revisit the LRDC closure, despite recommendations from the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food is certainly disheartening, it is not wholly unexpected,” said Reeve John Ireland.

“Throughout this process, we have worked tirelessly alongside producers, researchers, industry organizations, and government partners to demonstrate the value of agricultural research in Lacombe. Although this decision represents a setback, we remain encouraged by recent discussions with the Province and continue to believe there is a viable path forward that preserves agricultural research capacity in our region.”

The Task Force recently met with Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Tara Sawyer and Deputy Minister Jason Hale to discuss the future of agricultural research in Lacombe. While the federal government has now confirmed its decision regarding the LRDC, Task Force members were encouraged by the Province’s understanding of the facility’s value and by discussions around potential opportunities involving organizations such as the University of Alberta, Western Crop Innovations and Results Driven Agriculture Research.

“While this decision is disappointing, it does not diminish the importance of the work that has been done at the Lacombe Research and Development Centre or the value it continues to hold for Alberta’s agricultural sector,” said Mayor Thalia Hibbs.

“Throughout this process, our communities have worked together with producers, researchers, industry organizations, and government partners to advocate for the continuation of agricultural research in Lacombe.

We remain encouraged by the Province’s ongoing engagement and by discussions with potential partners who recognize the significance of maintaining research capacity, expertise and innovation in Central Alberta.”

The Joint Task Force was established in response to the federal government’s announcement regarding the closure of the LRDC. Since then, the group has worked collaboratively with all levels of government, industry organizations, producers and research partners to advocate for the continuation of agricultural research in Lacombe.

The LRDC has long served as a centre for agricultural innovation, contributing important research in areas including forage production, livestock, crop development and environmental stewardship.

Although the federal government has confirmed its decision, the Task Force will continue working with stakeholders and potential partners to explore opportunities that support the continued presence of agricultural research in Lacombe.

“We owe it to Alberta’s producers, researchers, and future generations to continue pursuing solutions,” said Ireland. “The value of agricultural research in Lacombe remains as important today as it has ever been.”