The Lethbridge Polytechnic Research Farm will continue operations for at least 20 more years thanks to the renewal of a land lease agreement with the Government of Alberta.
According to a Jan. 22, 2026, Polytechnic news release, the agreement “reinforces a long-term relationship between the polytechnic and the provincial government as they work to conduct applied agricultural research operations in response to industry needs.”
WHY IT MATTERS: Lethbridge Polytechnic is one of the top 10 research institutions in Canada.
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Lethbridge Polytechnic has a 35-year history of conducting applied research in agriculture, most recently within the Centre for Applied Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship (CARIE).
CARIE has managed the farm since 2020 as part of the initial lease agreement with the provincial government. Since then, the polytechnic, through the Mueller Irrigation Research Group, has expanded capacity and research capabilities for precision irrigation projects.
“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,” wrote Kenny Corscadden, vice-president of academic and research, in the release.
“Thanks to our partnership with the provincial government, we look forward to enhancing our capacity for student-focused, industry-connected agricultural research.”
Added Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation RJ Sigurdson, “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.
“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.”
