Local agrologist to lead applied research with MHC’s Centre for Innovation
Agricultural opportunities are growing at Medicine Hat College (MHC) as its Centre for Innovation (C4i) welcomes Professional Agrologist Lesley Burton to lead a comprehensive applied research program.
With 22 years of expertise specializing in irrigated land and soil classification, field crop agronomy and sustainable agricultural practices, Burton will play a critical role in leading the inception and implementation of a comprehensive applied research program for the C4i. This work, made possible by a $750,000 Mobilize Grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), will target key areas of technology, science, and business innovation within the agricultural landscape, with an emphasis on soil health.
“Lesley is an invaluable addition to the C4i team with deep ties to the region and a producer focused lens. She reinforces the C4i’s commitment to ensuring the voice of the industry is heard and that applied research directly addresses the needs of local producers,” says Chelsey Ehresman, manager for the C4i.
As a small business owner and farm owner/operator from Tilley, Alberta, Burton is well-connected within the ag community. Part of her role will include fostering partnerships with regional stakeholders, facilitating projects aligned to the regional needs, collaborating with MHC faculty and providing training and mentorship for students.
Feedback has been positive in her first few weeks, says Burton, noting industry is excited to see this focus on agriculture research and hands-on approach with local producers in Southeast Alberta.
“Being able to help improve the presence of agriculture from an innovation standpoint for our region was something I was very excited to be a part of. I believe that C4i is going to be able to enhance collaboration between ag producers, the industry and researchers to improve the quality of research being done and the extension of the results.”
Burton is currently working to arrange research projects for the upcoming season that will help solve real-time problems and improve management practices.