Assiniboine College has received a donation of $125,000 from Scotiabank to support advancing agriculture research. The funding will support active research that focuses on evaluating multi-species cash/cover crops and regenerative agriculture principles to advance net-positive grain farming.
The Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment conducts research to address sector challenges and meet industry needs. As part of the college's Applied Research Strategy, the school significantly contributes to advances in agricultural practices, sustainable horticulture, and environmental stewardship.
"At Scotiabank, we are committed to playing a role in advancing a sustainable agriculture industry," said Janice Holzscherer, Managing Director & Head of Agricultural Banking at Scotiabank. "We are proud to support Assiniboine College and its innovative applied research projects and to make a positive contribution to the environment and the agriculture industry, fostering a future where profitability and sustainability go hand in hand."
"Developing adaptive and regenerative practices in agriculture is crucial to reaching our shared climate and economic objectives," said Kim Brand, Vice President and Global Head, Sustainability at Scotiabank. "Through the tangible insights of this research, farmers will improve their capabilities to decarbonize their operations, build resiliency, and strengthen the sustainable food systems we all depend on."
Scotiabank's investment will support research led by adjunct faculty researcher, David Rourke, who is also the founder of Ag-Quest, an Agriculture and Environmental Field Research firm based in Minto, Manitoba. Rourke's research is focused on exploring the development of farming practices that are profitable, sequester large amounts of carbon, increase crop yields and lead to the elimination of the use of fossil fuels.
"We are pleased to have been recognized by Scotiabank for the impactful research being conducted through the college," said Dr. Nicole Gaudette, Dean of the Russ Edwards School of Agriculture & Environment at Assiniboine. "With Scotiabank's support, our research will continue to focus on developing innovative farming techniques and pave the way for more sustainable agricultural practices."
This generous contribution is part of Assiniboine College's ongoing efforts to develop the Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture. The Centre will develop critical infrastructure, introduce new programs, and promote growth in the agriculture industry.
The Prairie Innovation Centre for Sustainable Agriculture is a one-of-a-kind Canadian college project that will bring together collaborative learning space, applied research labs and multipurpose spaces that will serve both the college community and agriculture industry. The Centre will support new program for labour market development, applied research and industry engagement.
