Lethbridge College is collaborating with the agriculture industry, farmers, government agencies and academic partners to present the Irrigated Crop Production Update (ICPU) conference at the Lethbridge Agri-Food Hub and Trade Centre from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 18, 2024.
The conference will feature presentations on topics such as:
- water allocation during dry summers
- strategies and tools to better manage irrigation and irrigated crops
- pest management concerns on irrigated acres
- information about snowpack conditions and forecasted water supply for 2024
The college has also applied for Certified Crop Advisor (CCA) and Pesticide Applicator credits for the event, for those seeking continuing education credits.
“The Irrigated Crop Production Update conference exists to share practical information and spark ideas for irrigated farms, industry and relevant research programs,” says Dr. Willemijn Appels, senior research chair with the Mueller Irrigation Research Group at the college. “It is a great day to spend with stakeholders in the irrigation sector of southern Alberta and beyond.”
In addition to information about growing irrigated crops, there will be a tradeshow space available for exhibitors as well as dedicated networking breaks. New this year is a networking reception that will immediately follow the conference sponsored by the Regional Innovation Network of Southern Alberta (RINSA). The Research in RINSA reception will showcase irrigation-related research happening in southern Alberta, including research being done by college students.
“These types of events are an important way to showcase and share the irrigation knowledge in our region,” says Andrew Dunlop, director of applied research operations at Lethbridge College. “It’s also a valuable way to learn about industry needs that lead to meaningful discussions about future potential research projects.”
Those interested in sponsorship opportunities and registration can find more details on the Irrigated Crop Production Update website.
For more information about the Irrigated Crop Production Update or the Research in RINSA networking event, please contact: autumn.barnes@lethpolytech.ca.