Limitless 2013

November 2013

LIMITLESS A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

100 Years p.10 Alberta Biochar Initiative p.8

Agricultural Research p.16 Geothermal Research p.12 Data Web Application p.18

Green &

Gold Weekend Join us in Vermilion Nov. 15-17, 2013 for Green and Gold Weekend, the conclusion of our year-long centennial celebrations.

Staff Wine and Cheese Social Friday, Nov. 15 When the Vermilion School of Agriculture opened in 1913, there were only 8 employees. Today Lakeland College has more than 300 full-time employees. At this event we’ll thank past and present employees for their contribution to the college’s success. Phone to reserve your complimentary ticket.

The Next 100 Years Saturday, Nov. 16 A wonderful meal, Century Club announcements, and music by the Cool Tones are part of this special evening as we reflect on our past and prepare for the college’s next 100 years. Alberta beef is on the menu. Tickets are $50 each.

A Moment in Time Sunday, Nov. 17 100 years in the making, this family-themed function celebrates the 100th anniversary of our official opening on Nov. 17, 1913. Activities conclude with the opening of a time capsule and the sealing of a new one.

www.lakelandcollege.ca/centennial 1 800 661 6490, ext. 5401

Apple Drugs • County of Vermilion River • Long's Value Drug Mart Associated Engineering • Cargill Ltd. • Coca Cola • Impact Clothing Company Ltd. Lynass, Ferguson & Shoctor • Peak Networks • Vermilion Voice • Vet Novations Canada

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Publication Information Limitless is published by Lakeland College Applied Research and Innovation. Special thanks to all Lakeland College employees and partners who contributed information and photographs for this publication Contributers: Rob Baron, Geoff Brown, Alok Dhungana, Robert Dixon, Mel Mathison, Sean McInroy, Marya Pettigrew, Colleen Symes Editors: Susan Beach, Colleen Symes Design: Veronica Peterson

Vermilion Campus 5707 College Drive Vermilion AB T9X 1K5 Lloydminster Campus 2602 59 Avenue Lloydminster AB T9V 3N7

LIMITLESS LEARNING 3 Renewable Energy Learning Centre 4 Animal Science Technology 5 Student Managed Farm 6 GrowSafe

LIMITLESS PARTNERSHIP 8 11

Alberta Biochar Initiative Lakeland College 100 years

LIMITLESS RESEARCH 12 12 13 14

www.lakelandCollege.ca

Geothermal Research Wainwright Test Site Heat Storage Jerusalem Artichoke

LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITY 16 Agriculture Research 18 FlexStation 19 High-Tech Emergency Training 20 Regional Business Accelerator

Our Mission: To inspire learner success and community development through innovative learning in an inclusive and diverse environment.

Our Vision: Ever to excel in a global society.

Our Values: We value learner achievement, academic excellence and personal growth founded on our longstanding principles of: people-centred and respect, accountability and integrity, inclusiveness and collaboration, continuous self-improvement, innovation, and pride A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

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LIMITLESS LEARNING 1911 Research Came First As early as 1908 the Vermilion Board of Trade began lobbying for a demonstration farm and an agricultural school in their new community.

In 1911 the Alberta government purchased 7 farms varying in size from 160 to 640 acres in Athabasca Landing, Claresholm, Medicine Hat, Olds, Sedgewick, Stony Plain and Vermilion. Each was operated by the government as a mixed farm. Buildings included a dairy barn, horse barn, house for the farm manager and a house for the farm hands. The farm manager’s house, now Alumni House, is one of the original buildings still on campus today.

Visionary agriculture minister Duncan Marshall, agreed there was a need for agricultural education for the new settlers.

He didn’t think a central school was a good idea and wanted to spread the schools around so the young men and women could be educated close to home.

People were encouraged to visit the demonstration farms and participate in short courses. Marshall made it clear that these demonstration farms would be the forerunners for agricultural schools, but only at most 3 schools.

In September 1912 the school locations were announced, school buildings were constructed and the 3 brand new ag schools were opened in late 1913.

Welcome to Lakeland College This is the second edition of Limitless, a showcase of all the amazing, innovative and exciting applied research and learning projects, both past and present, at Lakeland College. We hope you enjoy it. Let us know!

Like us on Facebook Lakeland College Applied Research & Innovation Follow us on Twitter @LC_Research www.lakelandcollege.ca/applied-research

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Renewable Energy Learning Centre on Target for Net-Zero Energy Net Zero Energy

Net Zero Energy is the term used to describe a building that generates all of its energy requirements on-site.

The building may export energy when surplus is generated and import energy when generation is insufficient. When the total energy generated is averaged over a year, the building will appear not to have used energy from an outside source and, in theory, will not have contributed to additional carbon emissions.

Renewable Energy Learning Centre

Lakeland’s Renewable Energy Learning Centre (RELC) was designed as a net-zero energy classroom and office building. This unique facility is the centrepiece of the college’s renewable energy research.

The researchers’ offices are in this modified house where they experience its annual net-zero energy targets on heat and electricity through energy-saving enhancements and on-site renewable energy generation.

Since December 2012, renewable energy generation has met 100% of the Centre’s electricity needs, including the electricity for the geothermal heat pump used for heating and cooling the building. Solar photovoltaic (tracking and fixed), wind energy, solar thermal and geothermal systems all work together.

The RELC serves as a lab where different combinations of technologies can be used, optimized and evaluated. “Wind often blows when the sun does not shine for solar photovoltaic (PV). Solar-thermal hot water can be used, when available, to heat the building; this reduces the need for the geothermal system. The geothermal heat pump in turn uses electricity generated by the wind and solar PV,” says Baron.

A key feature of the centre is the real-time online monitoring system. Although online monitoring of renewable systems is not new, Lakeland is developing its own system with some unique features. The need for online performance data surfaced when Lakeland first developed its online Renewable Energy and Conservation diploma program. “We wanted our students to have virtual access to a real-world lab so they could analyze performance, fully understand renewable energy systems and do assignments as they would in person,” says lead researcher Rob Baron who also teaches in the program.

The site (www.lakelandenergydata.ca) currently provides researchers with detailed information about the complex integrated systems and will be enhanced over the fall and winter of 2013 to include more high-level summary reports, animations of system operations and interactions of interest to more casual visitors to the site.

Ongoing work at the centre includes additional testing of each of the building’s integrated renewable energy systems.

As of August 2013, the on-site energy generation on-site has even exported more than 1 megawatt-hour of energy for use

elsewhere. “Right now the centre is actually running at net-positive, but as winter approaches and solar generation decreases we will be using up that surplus to be on target for net-zero energy for our first full year of operation,” says Baron.

About 90% of the building’s electricity comes from solar photovoltaic and about 10% from the small wind turbine.

Any temporary shortage of power is supplemented from Alberta’s electrical grid.

Where does the electricity come from?

December, 2012 to August, 2013

Roof 5%

Wind 10% Ground Mount Fixed PV 37%

Ground Mount Tracker PV 48%

A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

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LIMITLESS LEARNING Animal Science Technology Students Experience “Hands-On” Management Students in the Animal Science Technology (AST) program at Lakeland College have the unique opportunity to participate in the management of the Student Managed Farm’s (SMF) four livestock units.

The SMF model is an integral part of the culture of hands-on management training in agricultural programs at Lakeland College. SMF-Livestock allows students to become involved in a model that mimics a complex agricultural business. Students frequently mention the SMF-Livestock courses and access to the operational livestock units on the college farm as great strengths of the program.

AST students join one of the SMF-Livestock Teams and participate in the management of a livestock unit in a team environment.

The teams are centered on the college’s dairy, sheep, commercial beef, and purebred beef units. The student teams work closely with a faculty advisor, farm staff members and instructors when making decisions on the livestock unit.

Agriculture instructor moving cattle

Team leaders for each team are chosen in a competitive “hiring” process that mirrors real life. Candidates must submit a formal application and then participate in an interview process conducted by the outgoing team leaders. Incoming team leaders choose managers for several important areas within their team.

Business decisions are made in a formal meeting environment that allows all team members an opportunity to have input.

Students are graded based upon their participation and contributions to the team activities.

College livestock units are involved in several applied research trials and AST students benefit from participation in these projects. Exposure to applied research provides Lakeland College students with a valuable additional tool in choosing a focus for their future career paths.

There’s an App for That!

Mobile devices are already taking the place of published field guides for environmentalists, and Lakeland students are picking up on the trend.

Instructor Darcey Shyry initiated an identification apps project for the college’s website that includes dozens of apps that students can use to identify birds, plants, herptiles, fish, mammals, invertebrates and rare species.

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“There are several reasons why you would use an app instead of a field guide book. At the top of the list is that your mobile device could have many field guides and includes sounds so you’re getting much more in a more compact format,” says Shyry.

Student Managed Farm Powered by New Holland Integrates with Applied Research

SMF students

Lakeland College’s Student Managed Farm (SMF-Crops) has added an applied research student team to complement the production, marketing and finance teams already in place. Each year the Crop Technology class is divided into smaller groups to focus on specific tasks such as crop selection, fertility and crop protection, market opportunities and balancing revenue and expenses. The SMF also selects a general manager and assistant manager who are responsible for oversight of the whole operation and public relations responsibilities.

The new applied research student group will be working with Lakeland’s applied

research department to plan and execute the experiments in the “management intensity return on investment” and “decision support systems” themes of the recently awarded NSERC grant supporting $2.3 million dollars of agricultural research at Lakeland over the next 5 years. This grant will support a program of research that is intended to “enhance commercial agricultural productivity and build the rural bio-economy”. According to Rob Baron who acts as an applied research coach to SMF students, “Lakeland’s hands on approach to a college education is uniquely structured to easily incorporate the applied research projects into the curriculum and get students involved.”

SMF students will have a key role in the research by refining experimental plans, working out the detailed logistics for the experiments and analyzing the results.

Students will work closely with local producers and industry research partners.

The connection to industry will enhance student learning, introduce students to the industry and provide them the opportunity to make contacts that are so important to their success after graduation.

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LIMITLESS LEARNING Livestock Research grows with “GrowSafe” Lakeland College entered into a partnership with Highland Feeders of Vegreville, AB last year to conduct its first official livestock research trial. The partnership, which also included involvement of Feedlot Health Management Services (FHMS) of Okotoks, conducted a study to evaluate the effects of two finishing diets (high moisture barley & dry rolled barley) on feedlot performance, carcass characteristics and animal health of yearling beef steers fed using the GrowSafe system.

Students were involved in every aspect of the trial, from the initial processing, weighing and measuring of steers, checking cattle, diagnosis and treatment of sick animals, and feed bunk management to the final weighing and load-out of fattened cattle. The trial exposed the students, many of whom have not had direct exposure to the feedlot industry, to the business of feeding cattle for slaughter.

In addition, the students were also exposed to research trial protocol and design. Dr. Eric Behlke of FHMS made two trips to the college to speak to second year animal science technology students. During his first visit, trial design was discussed and the students were given instruction on significant management practices that would lead to a successful trial. The second visit was to communicate the results of the study with the students and was followed by a short feedlot nutrition tutorial.

Mike Kotelko, president of Highland Feeders, was happy with Lakeland’s efforts.

“The small pen facilities at Lakeland College provide an ideal setting for performing feeding trials using small numbers of animals while providing results with high statistical significance. We are very pleased with Lakeland’s execution of the trial and the performance of the GrowSafe system under their supervision and we will certainly use Lakeland’s facilities to conduct trials in the future.”

The GrowSafe equipment, which was funded by NSERC in 2011, has provided a tremendous opportunity for Lakeland College and its students. “The equipment has really put us in the game when it comes to livestock research,” says Geoff Brown, instructor in the animal science technology program. “We have the tools

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Agriculture instructor Geoff Brown standing with Dr. Eric Behlke at the livestock research facility on the Vermilion campus

to help improve profitability and efficiency of livestock production in Western Canada.

That is a big deal.”

The GrowSafe feed bunk system allows for the collection of daily individual feed intake data. “The side benefit of the equipment is that it also serves as a powerful learning tool for our students,” says Brown. “It allows them to see how much variation there is in an animal’s eating patterns from day to day.

We can use this to teach the principles of feed bunk management and also show how sickness affects eating patterns.”

The research pens at Lakeland College are not exclusively for testing beef cattle.

Research trials involving other livestock such as sheep or dairy animals are also being discussed. “There are so many ways we can go with this type of research facility, from selection of breeding stock for feed efficiency to animal behaviour and welfare studies,” says Brown. One thing is for sure, the capacity for livestock research at the college is growing.

Behind the Scenes In the fall of 2012, FarmOn Foundation turned to Lakeland Students for help with the pre-production planning and then filming of the video. Students spent two weeks arranging scene locations, props, and a filming schedule. They also used social and traditional media to convince hundreds of students to participate in the video. Before the FarmOn team made final edits, students reviewed the video and provided feedback. Fittingly, students also planned and hosted a video launch party in February 2013.

Students researched other agricultural and on campus campaigns to look for effective ways to engage their audience. Data from social media was also used by students to track and analyze their campaign.

“There were things I learned by taking part in this project that I know I couldn’t have been taught in the classroom,” says Brittny Friend.

Watch LakelandCollegeAB’s channel #Farm Voices- It’s Our Turn

FarmOn filming on the Vermilion campus

Enviro Club Sprouts Green Roof Project After trials and research, a 4.87 x 5.79 metre structure with a gable roof was built in the spring of 2013. The club chose a sloped roof rather than a traditional flat roof to ensure the green roof is seen. A waterproof membrane protects the roof and geocell helps hold six inches of specialty soil. The roof was sodded, a mat with irrigation lines added to the peak, and 500 plants including sedums and forbs such as sages, asters and strawberries were planted.

Green roofs are gaining popularity in cities because of their ability to store rain water which reduces storm-water run-off. They also reduce building and city temperatures, filter pollutants, beautify space and are often used for vegetable gardens.

The seeds of the project were planted by Enviro Club members in 2009. It’s hoped the beautiful structure will become a popular spot for outdoor concerts, studying, and hanging out with friends while also helping students learn more about green roofs.

This project was a collaborative effort amongst numerous departments.

Instructors in Trades and Technology put many hours into design and construction.

The wiring was all completed by campus electricians. The Grounds staff is now working to make the space a focal point.

Lakeland College students, staff, and faculty working on the green roof

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LIMITLESS PARTNERSHIPS Alberta Biochar Initiative Biochar

Biochar is a type of charcoal which is valuable as a soil amendment. It is produced by pyrolysis of biomass.

Pyrolysis is the thermochemical decomposition of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. As a soil amendment, biochar can increase soil water and nutrient holding capacity, increasing agricultural production.

The product is also valuable in carbon sequestration being able to tie up carbon for many years once in the soil.

Participating in the official ribbon cutting ceremony MLA Jacquie Fenske, and Vegreville mayor Richard Coleman

The Alberta Biochar Initiative (ABI) began as a joint consortium of Lakeland College, Alberta Innovates Technology Futures (AITF) and industry partners (Alberta Newsprint Company, NovaGreen Inc. and The Prasino Group) with financial assistance from Western Economic Diversification Canada. The mission of ABI is to develop and demonstrate biochar production technologies that will enable the largescale commercial deployment of biochar products and biochar applications for the benefit of Albertans. ABI envisions bringing the key players together to establish a robust commercial-scale biochar production, application and carbon trading market in Alberta.

ABI is currently developing a network of small-to-medium sized enterprises (SMEs), industries, academia and government to work collaboratively on various projects in production and the application of biochar for various end-use applications including soil amendments, reclamation,

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remediation, horticultural growth media, and conducting biochar lifecycle analysis for potential carbon sequestration applications.

On May 23, 2013, ABI celebrated its official opening with more than 90 people from different industries, research organizations and government gathered at AITF in Vegreville to discuss the opportunity for biochar development in Alberta and Canada. At the official opening, Richard Wayken, vice president of Bio & Industrial Technologies at AITF, noted, “The team has made great strides in determining which locally available feedstocks work best, and in optimizing the two demonstration-scale pyrolysis units that produce biochar. Thanks to their efforts, I’m increasingly certain the Alberta Biochar Initiative will contribute to the emergence of a strong bioeconomy in Alberta.”

Mel Mathison, dean of Environmental Sciences and Applied Research at

Lakeland College, was impressed with the commitment of the event’s participants.

“The researchers, business people and government representatives who gathered here today are eager to advance biochar technologies to a point where Alberta has commercial producers, markets for their products and a supply chain. ABI is the catalyst that will help get us there.”

Two biochar production units have been built and were on site for participants to view at the official ribbon cutting ceremony. The afternoon seminar was an opportunity to network with people involved with biochar. Keynote speakers from Quebec and Ontario brought a national perspective of biochar development in Canada. Industry and academic researchers presented their work on current biochar research, focusing on the economics of biochar production and application.

Biochar Production Units ABI owns and operates two demonstrationscale portable biochar production units.

One unit can be temporarily relocated to an ABI partner’s site for biochar production trials using their feedstock. The other unit will remain at AITF Vegreville, with the opportunity to bring feedstock to the unit for biochar production and evaluation.

Biochar production unit- retort auger

Both units have a rated capacity of one tonne of biochar per 24-hour day. The units have been operational since early 2013.

Numerous feedstock materials have been tested, including pulp mill waste sludge, chopped straw, wood chips and pin-chips.

They have offered valuable information related to biochar production and most importantly in gaining key design data for commercial unit design.

These biochar production units are quite distinct in reactor design and operation.

The multi-hearth unit is an updraft gasifier tuned for production of a high quality and quantity yield of biochar. This light weight unit also produces syn-gas for external thermal application.

The retort auger unit, on the other hand, slowly cooks the biomass inside the auger assembly by combusting volatiles generated during the operation. This allows for a potentially higher yield of biochar compared with a multi-hearth unit.

Biochar production unit- multi-hearth

The preferred choice of reactor design depends upon many factors such as the feedstock’s physical properties, cost and biochar end-use requirements.

Partnership with ABI ABI is a growing network of partners working together to advance their respective interests, and to develop the biochar sector as a whole. ABI assists with the development and demonstration of technologies that enable the large scale commercial deployment of biochar product applications for the benefit of Albertans.

Interested individuals and organizations working in the biochar sector can apply to become an ABI partner. Please visit www. albertabiochar.ca for more information.

A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

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1913 Vermilion School of Agriculture When the Vermilion School of Agricultural (VSA) officially opened on November 17, 1913, 34 young men were registered for free agricultural education. By the spring of 1914, 24 young women had started home economics training.

In the intervening decades, VSA became Lakeland College. The college opened a campus in Lloydminster in 1990. The programs diversified to include not only agricultural sciences but also business, energy and petroleum technology, environmental sciences, fire and emergency services, health and wellness, human services, interior design technology, trades and technology and university transfer.

From the first 58 students, enrolment has grown to more than 7,500 full-time and part-time students every year, including full-time, apprenticeship and online students.

What a Ride!

Today animal science technology and crop technology students participate in Student Managed Farm-Powered by New Holland courses. Second year students operate and manage a crop enterprise or a commercial or purebred cattle, sheep or dairy unit.

Students participate in regular meetings, set goals, follow a budget, and do some of the hands-on work all with the goal of running a profitable and sustainable agribusiness. As they work in teams they also develop decision making, management, organization, communication, critical thinking and interpersonal skills.

In late 2010 the college added to its land base by purchasing 10 quarters of land and a yard that borders the west side of the Vermilion campus This land has been an asset not just for the farm, but also for environmental sciences and applied research. The yard is home to the college’s Centre for Sustainable Innovation (CSI), the hub for applied research activity.

The Great Toboggan Ride

Lakeland College’s centennials events took a downward turn in February that should slide the college into the Guinness World Records.

The college was after the record for riding the world’s largest toboggan built to scale. The 10.98 metre long by 2.85 metre wide toboggan met the record-breaking dimensions, but to prove it was an authentic toboggan, at least one person had to ride it a minimum of 100 metres.

In a nod to the centennial, 100 people piled on board for the first attempt. It didn’t quite reach the finish line. On the third attempt the toboggan slid 108.2 metres with 42 people on it, and then, loaded with 31 people, travelled 109.9 metres at a speed of 21 km/hour. To finish off the recordbreaking day, three smart cars slid 106.6 metres.

1955- Aerial photo of Laklenad College Vermilion campus

$1 Million Awards Lakeland College’s awards program distributed $ 1,055,557 to students during the 2012-2013 academic year.

There were 1,091 awards, scholarships and bursaries presented to students during the year. Some students received one award; others received multiple awards. Recipients were selected for many reasons including academic excellence, campus leadership, community involvement, financial need and participation in Rustlers athletics.

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LIMITLESS RESEARCH One of a Kind Installation for Geothermal Research Earthnet Geothermal and Vital Engineering have partnered with Lakeland College to evaluate current designs and installation methods of vertical boreholes.

Six different types of boreholes were installed in one geothermal field at the College’s Renewable Energy Learning Centre. The geothermal field has been designed so that each borehole’s heating loop can be isolated and researchers can operate any combination of loops at a time while collecting data. Instrumentation is now in place to monitor heat flow in and out of the field as well as the geofield’s ground temperatures.

Dean Turgeon, president and CEO of Vital Engineering and past president of the Alberta Geothermal Energy Association, is excited to see the installation: “[Lakeland’s geothermal] reference field is ground breaking for the geothermal industry in

Canada. The embedded sensor system and flexibility to isolate boreholes is going to provide incredibly valuable information to advance borehole performance and national and international geothermal design standards.”

Lakeland’s research technicians are currently experimenting and collecting data from the one-of-a-kind geofield.

Almost at the halfway mark, the experiment phase is expected to be completed by the end of 2014, with a detailed research report available in spring 2015. They are testing and comparing specific installation methods (grout, pipe types, and single vs. double loop pipes); the size of geofield needed to heat or cool a building; and, the potential of integrating solar thermal with geothermal energy systems.

Monitoring Efficiency at Wainwright’s Renewable Energy Test Site The research team is in the final stages of installing energy monitoring equipment at a residential test site in Wainwright, in partnership with Own Energy. The residence currently uses geothermal as its primary energy source for space heating, cooling and domestic hot water. An array of 90 evacuated tube solar collectors provides supplemental heating. The research team will monitor the efficiency and energy consumption of the heat pump; frequency of the circulator pump operation; the thermal heat flow of both geothermal and solar systems; and, the efficiency of the solar collector.

OwnEnergy Evacuated solar thermal collectors on the Wainwright test site

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Using Phase Change Materials to Store Low-Temperature Heat

PCM experiment heat flow diagram

The research team has begun work on an experiment to store low-temperature heat in phase change materials (PCMs) for the 2013-2014 heating season. This experiment will integrate phase change materials with the building’s combined solar thermal– geothermal system.

The Renewable Energy Learning Centre is primarily heated by a ground-source heat pump. An array of solar thermal collectors provides supplemental heat to the building when it can. During the coldest months of the year the collectors are unable to generate heat at a high enough temperature to heat the house. To make use of the unused low-temperature heat, the solar collectors will be tied into the incoming, source side of the heat pump. This will decrease the demand on the geo-field and increase the heat pump’s performance. A storage tank for lowtemperature solar heat will be designed and built specifically for this purpose.

Because the heat pump operates within a minimum and maximum temperature, the tank must maintain a temperature within this range. Fluctuations in hourly and daily solar radiation pose a problem, but this can be resolved by using phase change materials. The PCMs will store any excess heat and maintain a stable temperature for the heat pump as well as making the daily heat in storage available at times of no sunlight. Installation is expected this fall.

Phase Change Materials (PCM)

A PCM is a material that undergoes a phase transformation (i.e. solid to liquid, liquid to gas, etc.) at a specified temperature. Water, for example, is considered a phase change material with phase transition temperatures of 0 and 100 degrees Celsius. When a phase change occurs in a material it either releases or absorbs a significant amount of energy. Researchers take advantage of this material characteristic and utilize it in thermal energy storage applications.

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LIMITLESS RESEARCH Jerusalem Artichoke Jerusalem Artichoke

Jerusalem Artichoke is a perennial and member of the sunflower family. It is a native plant of North America but not widely grown commercially. It is, however, grown as a food staple in some parts of the European Union.

Project researcher Linden Lundback in the Jerusalem artichoke field

Partnering with NovaGreen and AITF (Alberta Innovates Technology Futures), Lakeland College is conducting Jerusalem Artichoke (JART) research to develop an agronomic package for this plant, enhancing its potential as a crop in Alberta.

Interest in commercially growing the plant in Canada is emerging because of the high concentrations of inulin among other products in the plant. Inulin can be used to replace sugar, fat and flower with the advantage that it contains about 30 per cent of the food energy of carbohydrates resulting in less comparable calories to the consumer. In replacing sugar, inulin has minimal impact on blood sugar so it is beneficial for diabetics in managing bloodsugar-related illnesses. Inulin increases calcium absorption which is valuable for bone sustainability especially in older people, and it acts as a prebiotic which supports beneficial intestinal bacteria growth and is a soluble fiber which also supports intestinal health. Industrially, inulin can be converted to ethanol.

NovaGreen is working on processes to more effectively extract inulin from JART.

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Lakeland College was approached

by NovaGreen to assist in developing commercial-scale agronomic production methods for JART in Alberta. Effective crop production using field-scale equipment will help expand local JART production to support feedstock production for inulin and other neutraceuticals extraction. Using breeding stock developed by AITF, the project at the college will help develop preliminary best practices for commercial propagation, variety selection, weed management, seeding parameters and harvest practices for the crop. Current equipment utilized for this crop is limited to small field-sized machines and often requires high levels of manual labour for both planting and harvesting. Initial work at the college will concentrate on adapting larger-scale equipment and processes for growing JART. The larger scale agronomic practices being developed will better fit the design of larger scale farming operations in Alberta. Later research will be based on refining initial equipment and processes and expanding to agronomic processes and timing to help maximize extract production from the plant.

The crop can grow quite tall, commonly reaching over 2.5 metres, and can produce a number of stems. This production provides a substantial quantity of biomass (70 tonnes per hectare of foliage and stems) which can be valuable feedstock for biochar production. Biochar is a type of charcoal which is valuable as a soil amendment. It is produced by pyrolysis of JART or other biomass. Pyrolysis is the thermochemical decomposition of organic matter in the absence of oxygen. As a soil amendment, biochar can increase soil fertility, increasing agricultural production and has demonstrated potential protection against some soil-borne and foliar diseases.

The product is also valuable in carbon sequestration, being rich in carbon. Once in the soil, it is able to tie up carbon for many years.

Studies by Lakeland College on this crop are expected to continue into the near future to develop an effective agronomic production system for JART.

The Applied Research Team!

It’s amazing how applied research activities at Lakeland College have grown in just 4 years. Like most colleges in the Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education system, Lakeland had only a few research champions conducting small projects in addition to their full-time teaching workloads. With the change of the College’s mandate to include research and the development of the Centre for Sustainable Innovation site just west of the main campus in Vermilion, applied research activities have become an important part of Lakeland’s identity. Applied research now has 5 full time people employed primarily in research supported by 5 summer students.

As new departments of the College become involved in research our expertise base expands with diverse knowledge in areas such as agriculture, environment, heavy oil, energy, emergency services and various trades. There are few academic or support departments that haven’t been involved or contribute greatly to the applied research efforts. Our thanks to the Lakeland team and their limitless potential!

Applied research team summer 2013

Collaboration Between Departments With the help of Applied Research and Innovation, the Grounds Department is working towards decreasing Lakeland College’s environmental impact.

Two initiatives are currently being explored that will result in more efficient usage of water and the decreased use of fossil fuels.

Incorporating live weather data with the college’s landscape irrigation systems is a great place to start. Advanced irrigation

systems respond to localized weather forecasts which save thousands of gallons of water as variables such as temperature and rain forecasts will automatically eliminate unnecessary watering cycles.

Through the utilization of native seed mixes large areas of the campus will be naturalized which encompasses a number of benefits. Notable benefits include increased safety for grounds workers, reduced fuel consumption as mowing is

decreased by 25% over the next 5 years, campus wide beautification as a result of vast sweeping lines being created along with texture and color variation, and decreased pesticide use. The creation of natural areas will enable environmental students to study on their own campus.

Together these departments are excited to integrate systems that set the standards in landscape maintenance.

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LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITY Exciting New Opportunities for Lakeland College The announcement in June 2013 of a major agricultural research grant marks a significant new dimension for the School of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences at Lakeland College. A Natural Science and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) $2.3 million, 5 year, Innovation Enhancement (IE) grant has been approved for Lakeland. This grant will allow Lakeland College to significantly develop the agricultural research capabilities.

Research Background During much of its 100-year history, Lakeland College has primarily concentrated on providing excellent education for students, with many demonstration research projects or associated research with local companies.

Several years ago the college made the decision to adopt a greater emphasis on applied research. Since then the college has been building its capacity for applied research, one of the first projects brought together with several partners in a lamb carcass quality study. Three years ago the College received it’s first NSERC grant in renewable energy related research, this funding is evaluating the potential efficiency from multiple renewable energy systems and thermal heat storage. A project was recently completed in livestock nutrition using the NSERC funded Growsafe Residual Feed Intake (RFI) system In 2013, the college began projects investigating the various uses of biochar, and the agronomics of Jerusalem Artichoke crop production.

1955- Students with sheep

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Agriculture NSERC Grant Themes

Student Benefits From Applied Research Providing hands-on learning situations for agriculture students, as well as partnering with local and regional agricultural input suppliers and producers, have long been important aspects of the agricultural programming at Lakeland College. Josie Van Lent, dean of Agricultural Sciences, is confident that the new research opportunities will further enhance these goals.

“It is exciting to be able to offer our students a greater educational experience and at the same time be able to help local businesses and producers investigate new technology,” said Van Lent.

Animal Science Technology students and instructor looking at cow ultrasound

Mel Mathison, dean of Environmental Sciences and Applied Research,, believes the new agriculture focused NSERC grant will provide a substantial boost to applied research at Lakeland College.

“Lakeland College is very pleased to have received a second Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) grant. This funding enables the college to further develop and establish research capacity in our key area of agriculture,” said Mathison.

Over the next five years, research activities associated with the Innovation Enhancement (IE) grant will focus on three main agricultural themes: livestock, crops, and land use management.

Livestock projects under the livestock theme will investigate subjects such as: • Breed-specific testing for growth performance in beef cattle • Assessing growth after selective breeding in the college herd and the herds of local producer partners • Measuring the effects of various diet compositions, including byproducts of ethanol production and silage in beef cattle and sheep rations • Supporting local producers who wish to use RFI measurements to augment

the marketing of artificial insemination products; • Using ultrasound to identify the number of lambs carried in pregnant ewes and how the pre-natal, post-natal, and post weaning nutritional requirements of the ewes are affected by the number of lambs born.

Crops theme will comprise trials investigating the efficacy of various field amendments, precision farming enhancements, biochar soil amendments, and variety trials. Lakeland College in partnership with Alberta Innovates Technology Futures, and funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada, is working on biochar potential opportunities. In addition, the grant will fund the investigation of certain novel crops such as Jerusalem Artichoke (JART), camelina, and agro-forestry crops.

Some novel crop studies may require the modification of agricultural equipment needed to seed and harvest these nontraditional crops.

The land use management theme of the research initiative will investigate the protection of sensitive wetlands through the application of appropriate grazing management strategies, the potential for the use of biochar in preventing the movement of soil contaminants,, and the use of agricultural by-product materials as energy sources through a gasification process.

Joseph Butcher, a 2013 graduate of the crop technology program at Lakeland College, is pleased with the possibility of students having the opportunity to be exposed to agricultural research while studying at the college. Butcher was employed for the summer at Lakeland College as an agriculture research technician.

“This is something that I think could help the students understand agriculture better.

Besides gaining a new perspective on a sector of their industry, the students will also benefit from the ideas and concepts generated from the research itself. There is still so much to be learned in every area of agriculture and if we are going to keep teaching, we are certainly going to have to keep learning,” said Butcher.

Larry Bingham, coordinator of agricultural research at Lakeland College, is excited by the potential impacts of increased agricultural research activity at the college.

“The agricultural research projects being planned for the next five years will move Lakeland College a big step forward in our attempt to stay on the leading edge of agricultural practices, as well as providing our students and producers in our region with practical demonstrations of new technology,” said Bingham.

A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

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LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITY Data Web Application – FlexStation Hardware and Software

The complete computer with custom designed electronics fits in the palm or your hand and gathers information from many sources to upload to a cloud-based database

Researchers at the Renewable Energy Learning Centre have developed FlexStation, a three-part system that allows a mobile browser (smart phone or tablet) to access and use real-time data from many renewable energy generators simultaneously.

The FlexStation package combines existing wireless and web server technologies with a new web application that integrates data from multiple systems in an interactive format. Similar systems exist but few can connect to as many data devices as the FlexStation. Because Lakeland has focused its renewable energy research on the integration of multiple systems, a flexible data solution was a necessity that researchers turned into an opportunity.

Built at Lakeland’s applied research facility, the heart of the monitoring system is a very small computer and some custom

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designed electronics. The computer collects environmental data such as temperatures, wind speed and solar radiation; data on all renewable energy generation systems; and data from the operation of a building’s heating, cooling and ventilation systems.

This coordinating computer uploads the data to a cloud (web-server) database where it is backed up and stored. Lakeland’s newly developed software, a web application, can access the data for any given time period and set of renewable energy systems, create meaningful reports and help visualize the information with graphs and animated graphics.

Currently, this system has been installed at four test sites that use many renewable energy generation systems. Wireless sensors also makes installation of data collecting devices easier and less intrusive.

The FlexStation package will assist solar installers to diagnose and resolve performance issues and allow owners to confirm their investment.

Since web applications are interactive, the user can sort data, ask questions and export the data to create custom reports.

The web application also provides up-tothe-moment information on all operating systems it is monitoring. Service technicians can view the data from anywhere in the world. This integrated and more reliable information will help to build confidence in the renewable energy industry.

The web application can be run on any device with a web browser and is optimized for use with smart phones and tablets. Access to some of the data and the prototype web application is available at www.lakelandenergydata.ca.

High-tech Training in Modernized Fire Tower at ETC Clean burning propane is piped to each prop with the master controls at the base of the tower. Instructors use a wireless hand-held pendant inside the burn room to turn the fire on, off, or to change the size and intensity of the fire to low, medium, or high depending on how the firefighters are attacking the fire. Custom-made solid stainless steel props—a car, bed, couch, and stove—can ignite and burn without damage. Fire-retardant panels that simulate drywall prevent further disintegration of the tower’s walls and ceilings.

Stainless steel car prop

Response training for building or structural fires at Lakeland College Emergency Training Centre (ETC) now involves more realistic scenarios thanks to extensive renovations to the 7-storey fire tower at the Vermilion campus.

Piped-in propane, fire-retardant paneling and custom-made props were installed in the tower in July to simulate rooms in various kinds of residences.

Until now, fires were built by hauling in straw bales and wood pallets. But Kirk

McInroy, ETC manager of technical services, explains that the wood and straw smoke often blew into the community.

The fires also resulted in heavy soot and extremely high heat buildup, which had begun to disintegrate the cement walls and ceilings. Now, any smoke you see at the fire tower will be artificial theatrical smoke.

Response training now involves more lifelike scenarios. The first three floors of the tower simulate apartment rooms: a kitchen, living room, bedroom, and garage.

Solar Concentrator Lakeland is the new home for a Prometheus solar concentrator prototype. This unit was built by Prometheus Solar Technologies in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia and recently tested by Alberta Innovates Technology Futures (AITF) in Edmonton. Concentrating the sun’s energy enables this collector to achieve temperatures in excess of 2,000°C, high enough to melt metal.

Researchers at Lakeland plan to use the unit to demonstrate solar concentrator technology. It will also be evaluated for providing high-temperature heat for processes such as material drying, biodiesel production and activation of charcoal for filters.

McInroy points out that controlling the fires and smoke with a pendant increases valuable practice experience. “When students make a mistake, the instructor can stop the fire, give students feedback, and start again. During a scenario, the students can also get caught in a simulated fire rollover—a very realistic situation.” Now, each student will get more nozzle time.

The fire tower has been a landmark at the ETC for 22 years. The investment in installing propane and new props means cleaner air in Vermilion, enhanced training scenarios, and more practice time for all students.

CFI Funding Expands Research Capacity On July 1, 2013, the Canada Foundation for Innovation awarded Lakeland College a $571,001 grant to increase research capacity. This grant was matched by The Alberta Enterprise and Advanced Education Research Capacity Program. Equipment for fabrication/prototype development and many additional research tools have already been purchased for use in current research projects. The grant also will help fund a new thermal energy and bioenergy research building. It’s scheduled to open in 2014.

Melting Aluminum- Photo courtesy of AITF

A Celebration of Research and Innovation at Lakeland College

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LIMITLESS OPPORTUNITY Regional Business Accelerator

Lakeland College and the 14 other community-minded organizations that worked hard over the past years to develop and launch the Regional Business Accelerator are starting to see real results for all their hard work and dedication. In 2012 the RBA has focused on fulfilling its mission to support entrepreneurs by providing connections, coaching, mentoring and resources. “Our region is well known for our entrepreneurial and innovative activity” says Bob Mottram, Chair of the Board of Directors. “Our members are realizing the benefits of the community effort of our incubation program, and we are starting to see some economic benefits, even at our infant stage” The RBA serves as a new business aggregator and communications hub for external agencies offering programming in the region, along with developing novel, collaborative programming specific to our region’s industries and interests.

We focus on facilitating learning events not traditionally offered in our region, and connect businesses with research, education and non-governmental and governmental service providers, and community members.

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Since officially launching in March of 2012, the RBA has consistently grown its membership numbers, month after month.

They have mentored and coached 35 new business start-ups, and assisted another 257 local businesses, helping them find solutions to challenges they were facing.

In the past year the RBA has been very active in local high school entrepreneurial programs with presentations and coaching to over 100 high school students from different schools across our region.

But don’t take our word for it. Here are what some of their members are saying; “Working with the Regional Business Accelerator business coach was very instrumental in helping us put together a business presentation. They were able to accommodate a busy schedule, and helped turn our presentation into something that we now use as part of our product information packaging. We are extremely fortunate to have this business support model in our region” says Scott Pratt, partner of Go Technologies Ltd., a turnkey solution that allows excess gas to be metered, analyzed and odorized at the wellhead and fed at the pressures required by utilities for their low pressure

dry gas residential lines. Go Technologies was a featured in a number of innovative publications in the past year including the March issue of New Technology Magazine.

Another entrepreneur wrote “Thank you for all your help in getting this document finalized along with your QUICK responses.

Love it!!” P Lamon, a new speech therapy business in our region. “The contacts and advice were all helpful in the journey to launching our new business” comments Virginia Parenteau, Garden Valley Greenhouse.

A main reason for the RBA’s success is their collaborative approach to their business support model. Many of our sponsors work hand in hand with our organization ensuring our regions entrepreneurs and innovative minds have access to support, helping create a stronger, and more vibrant business community. Executive Director, Marya Pettigrew states “The Regional Business Accelerator is just getting started.

Expect great things in the future as we begin to realize the full potential of this organization!”

Renewable Energy and Conservation Certificate and diploma programs

“I began working toward a certificate in Renewable Energy and Conservation in January 2011. My husband and I own a cow/calf ranch near Halkirk, Alberta so the only logical way for me to go back to school was online. I took one course per session, so it took me two years to complete my certificate.

I found the courses all very informative and was able to achieve high marks because I could work at a pace that suited my learning style and my schedule.”

Clara Nibourg Renewable Energy and Conservation Class 2013

Position yourself to be part of the developing renewable energy field As a student in Lakeland College’s Renewable Energy & Conservation program, you’ll gain the knowledge and practical skills to be a leader in this growing area in the environmental sciences field. Register for online classes today!

Oct. 28 - Dec. 20/13 * Energy Audits and Conservation Practices * Introduction to Wind Energy • Small Business Management

Jan. 6 - Feb. 28/14 * * • •

Global Impact of Climate Change Introduction to Solar Power Water Issues and Conservation Practices Small Wind Energy Systems

March 3 - April 25/14 * * • •

Geo Energy Exchange, Installation Introduction to Biofuels Sustainable Building Design & Practices Solar Photovoltaic Systems

April 28 - June 20/14 * Communications * Waste Reduction, Reuse and Recycling • Geo Energy Exchange, Design Principles * Certificate class

• Diploma class

Learn more at www.lakelandcollege.ca/cleanenergy or phone 1 800 661 6490 ext. 8527

PROGRAMS

Agricultural Sciences • Agribusiness • Animal Health Technology • Animal Science Technology • Crop Technology • General Agriculture • Veterinary Medical Assistant • Western Ranch & Cow Horse Business • Accounting Technician • Business Administration - General Business Major • Business Administration - Accounting Major • Business Administration - Real Estate Appraisal and Assessment Major • Business Administration - Marketing Major • Business Administration - Small Business & Entrepreneurship Major • Bachelor Degree Completion through Athabasca University in Commerce and Management • Agribusiness Environmental Science • Bachelor of Applied Science: Environmental Management • Environmental Science Conservation & Restoration Ecology Major • Environmental Science- Environmental Conservation Reclamation Major

• Environmental Science- Environmental Monitoring & Protection Major • Environmental Science- Wildlife & Fisheries Conservation Major • Renewable Energy & Conservation Certificate & Diploma Fire & Emergency Services • Emergency Services Technologist • Firefighter (NFPA Standard 1001) Health & Wellness • Esthetician • Health Care Aide • Pre-Employment Hair Stylist Human Services • Child and Youth Care • Early Learning & Child Care • Educational Assistant • American Sign Language & Deaf Studies • Sign Language Interpretation Apprenticeship • Automotive Service Technician • Carpenter • Electrician • Gas Fitter • Heavy Equipment Technician • Instrument Technician • Parts Technician • Steamfitter/Pipefitter • Welder

Trades & Technology • Heavy Oil Operations Technician • Heavy Oil Power Engineering • 3rd & 4th Class Power Engineering • Gas Process Operator • Pre-Employment Electrician • Pre-Employment Instrument Technician • Pre-Employment Welding • Street Rod Technology • Interior Design Technology University Transfer Routes • Bachelor of Arts • Bachelor of Commerce • Bachelor of Education (Elementary) • Bachelor of Education (Secondary) • Bachelor of Science • Bachelor of Science (Human Ecology) • Bachelor of Science (Medical Laboratory) • Bachelor of Science (Nursing) • Bachelor of Science (Nutrition/ Food Science) • Bachelor of Social Work • Pre-Dentistry • Pre-Medicine • Pre-Pharmacy • Pre-Veterinary Medicine

Contact Information: Vermilion Campus 5707 College Drive Vermilion AB T9X 1K5 1 780 853 8400 www.lakelandCollege.ca Or call us toll-free at 1 800 661 6490 22

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Lloydminster Campus 2602 59 Avenue Lloydminster AB T9V 3N7 1 780 871 5700