The skies may have been grey, but spirits were high as farmers, agronomists, and industry pros gathered at Western Crop Innovations (WCI) in Lacombe this morning for a full day of learning, collaboration, and in-field discovery.
“This isn’t just about variety development,” said Trevor Sears, the newly appointed executive director of WCI, formerly known as the Field Crop Development Centre. “We’re here to talk about how to get the most out of the genetics we’re developing — by combining them with smart management practices like pest control, soil health, and disease prevention. That’s what drives profitability.”
And that was the theme of the day: connecting agronomy with innovation.
WCI may be a new name in applied research, but it’s already becoming a key player in helping producers bring together the science and practice of farming. Backed by a board of producers and industry experts, WCI is building on the strong foundation laid by the former interim board, which developed the organization’s first business plan and helped secure essential partnerships and funding.
“We’ve had incredible support,” said Kevin Bender, a local producer and the new board chair of WCI. “Results-Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) and the Alberta government have played a big role in getting us here — and today is actually RDAR’s fifth anniversary. We also want to thank Alberta Grains, Alberta Canola, Alberta Beef Producers, and all our other partners and funders who are making this work possible.”
The day features two tracks of sessions, with groups rotating between stations by bus and on foot. Presenters will cover critical topics like pest management, nutrient use, and crop fertility, with plenty of time for attendees to ask questions and dig into the details.
“These field days are where the real learning happens,” said Scott Jesperson, who farms in Spruce Grove and serves as chair with Alberta Grains. “It’s where researchers and farmers talk shop, share insights, and learn from each other. That’s where the magic is.”
The event was made possible through the collaboration of organizations including Alberta Grains, Alberta Canola, Alberta Pulse Growers, SARDA Ag Research, and Lakeland College — each contributing to a strong, cross-sector learning environment designed for farmers, by farmers.
Before heading out into the field, WCI Communications Coordinator Keeley Bender gave the crowd a rundown on logistics. With buses arriving, rain in the forecast, and presentations split between fields, attendees were advised to grab ponchos, pull on rubber boots, and prepare to get their hands (and maybe boots) dirty. “You’ll have a chance to see every single session,” she assured the group. “We’re rotating through in smaller groups so you can ask questions and really engage with the experts.”
And for those who stuck it out through the morning drizzle? A little something extra was in store. Each lanyard included a pink ticket for a sample of WCI’s “Future Beer of the Year” — proving that even at a research field day, innovation can come in a glass.
From practical tools to research-backed advice, the message was clear: smart management starts with strong collaboration. And events like this are what keep farmers one step ahead.
As Sears put it: “Please take full advantage of the experts and knowledge we’ve brought together today. I’ve only been on the job seven weeks and two days, and I’m excited to meet as many of you as I can. We’re just getting started — and it’s going to take all of us to build what’s next.”
