On a beautiful and sunny Wednesday, August 2, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) opened its doors at the Harrington Research Farm located just outside of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island (PEI). While agricultural science and research continued at AAFC throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, having large gatherings proved to be more difficult. Organizer and AAFC science coordinator, Scott Anderson, was more than happy to see industry back on the farm for the first time in several years.
“It is great to be able to host these events again. Our scientists, technicians and staff have close relationships with the agriculture industry and farmers and it’s always good for people to see firsthand the research happening on our farm,” said Scott.
More than 60 people attended the open house for the tour, learning and networking opportunities. The group toured the farm by wagon, stopping at 15 different field-sites. Prince Edward Island’s AAFC scientists showcased their latest research on cropping systems, pollen beetles, wild hops, potato scab, weed control, potato variety breeding and more.
A tradeshow was organized during lunch where scientists mingled with farmers and agriculture industry stakeholders to talk more about their research and how it can help the industry. Some of AAFC’s research collaborators hosted booths to discuss training and careers in agriculture, including the Province of Prince Edward Island, Dalhousie University Faculty of Agriculture, University of Prince Edward Island, Holland College and the East Prince Agri-Environment Association. Projects were also highlighted, such as the use of precision agriculture and AI technology to control weeds, along with Living Lab – Atlantic.
First time visitor to the Harrington Research Farm, Darryl Stoltz from Quality Sheep, was impressed with the extent of research on the farm.
“I enjoyed hearing more about bio-stimulants, the orchard grass and legume trials as well as meeting people interested in regenerative agriculture,” said Darryl.
Joanne Driscoll, Manager of the PEI Horticultural Association, also attended the open house.
“AAFC research is important to our agricultural sector and maintaining an open dialogue with researchers is what keeps us up to date. It also helps us to see the future trends,” said Joanne.
Joanne continued, “The day was fantastic. The tour, transportation, speakers, information, and lunch were spot on! These trial tours bring us out of our 'crop silos' and allow us to expand our vision and interest in other areas and potential projects for the commodities we represent.”
Scott Anderson adds that this event was well-attended and is just the beginning of more tours of the research farm in the near future.
“I have received many comments on how amazing the farm looks this summer. That it was one of the most state-of-the-art research farms they had ever seen.”
Take a virtual tour of the AAFC Harrington Research Farm.
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