The Lacombe Research and Development Centre (LRDC) Joint Task Force feels hopeful about comments made during this week’s Rural Municipalities of Alberta (RMA) Convention, indicating that discussions about the future of agricultural research in Alberta remain ongoing.

During a Bear Pit session with provincial ministers, Lacombe County Reeve John Ireland asked the Province to outline its commitment to agricultural research following the federal government’s decision to close several Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research facilities, including the Lacombe Research and Development Centre.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen strong support from municipalities, researchers, producers and industry organizations who recognize the importance of agricultural research to Alberta’s economy and food production systems,” said Ireland. “Our advocacy has always been about more than a single facility. It’s about ensuring Alberta retains the research capacity, expertise and innovation needed to keep our agriculture sector competitive and resilient.”

In response, Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation Tara Sawyer confirmed discussions are continuing regarding future opportunities and partnerships related to agricultural research in the province.

“The conversation is not done,” said Minister Sawyer during the session. “We have not stopped being that voice... we know there’s a path forward. It’s going to take collaboration, and it’s still in the works.”

The Minister also highlighted the Province’s continued investments in agricultural research through Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) and Western Crop Innovations (WCI).

For Task Force members, the comments reinforce the importance of continuing advocacy efforts.

“The Minister’s comments confirm what municipalities, producers and industry leaders have been saying throughout this process: the conversation about agricultural research in Alberta is far from over,” said Thalia Hibbs, Mayor of the City of Lacombe. “We are optimistic that discussions are continuing and remain committed to working collaboratively with all levels of government and industry to support innovation, food security and the long-term success of Canadian agriculture.”

The Task Force will continue working with municipalities, producer organizations, researchers, industry representatives and government partners to advocate for sustainable agricultural research capacity in Alberta and across Canada.

“Our communities have consistently demonstrated that agricultural research matters,” said Ireland. “We’ll continue advocating for solutions that preserve research excellence, support producers and strengthen Canada’s agricultural future.”

About the Joint Municipal Research Advocacy Task Force

The Lacombe Research and Development Centre (LRDC) Joint Task Force was established by the City of Lacombe and Lacombe County following the announcement of the LRDC’s closure.

Since January 2026, the Task Force has engaged municipal leaders, producer groups, industry stakeholders and elected officials from across Canada to advocate for the retention and advancement of agricultural research capacity for future generations.