Stakeholder participation and collaboration is a vital component for successful research and innovation. Research needs to be locally applied and easily adopted if stakeholders are going to endorse new knowledge around science, policy and practice.
Here is what our participating farmers have to say about production related agriculture research in Newfoundland and Labrador.
May 25, 2018
Testimonial
What working with the government on research has done for Larch Grove Farm and the industry:
“Working with the government on research has provided tremendous opportunities for Larch Grove Farm. Newfoundland and Labrador’s climate has always been somewhat of a challenge for dairy farmers in the province. By partnering with the government and carrying out necessary research, Larch Grove Farm was able to grow necessary crops that have never been produced in the province. This opportunity has opened the door for farmers to diversify and grow more of their own forage and crops and import less feed from off-island sources. This research has impacted my specific farm by allowing it to experience cost efficiencies as well as increased milk yields and improved milk components. Specifically, when feeding my cows canola oil (produced on one of my fields) in place of palm oil (imported off-island), my butter fat levels have increased which means the animals are reacting well to the feed and producing a quality product. Moving forward, I think government partnerships with local farmers will be critical in expanding the agriculture industry and increasing food self-sufficiency, which in turn will provide economic growth opportunities.
Working with the government has been a very positive experience and I look forward to partnering again in the future.”
Ian Richardson
Larch Grove Farm Ltd.
