Striving to excel has been the underpinning of survival for a college in a rural area. It’s meant being responsive to the needs of community and industry. After all, Lakeland College’s mission is “to inspire lifelong learning and leadership through experience, excellence and innovation.”
Limitless is published biennially by Lakeland College. Between issues of Limitless, visit lakelandcollege.ca to view stories of innovation and events. Subscribe to the Lakeland Link e-newsletter to stay up-to-date with Lakeland at lakelandcollege.ca/lakeland-link.
On behalf of the Applied Research department, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our industry partners, funders, collaborators, and community stakeholders for their continued support of our applied research initiatives. Your partnership is the foundation of our success, and we are proud of the applicable solutions that we have achieved together.
This past year has been marked by significant growth in applied research at the college. We have secured over $2.5 million in external funding, leveraging industry contributions with provincial and federal funding for increased impact. We supported innovative projects that directly address needs from producers, the agriculture industry, the ag-tech sectors and the community. Most importantly, we worked hard to create meaningful learning and mentorship opportunities for our students. Through hands-on research experiences, our students are gaining valuable skills and making real contributions to solving today’s challenges.
Our strategic priorities continue to focus on advancing research that is responsive, collaborative, and aligned with our institutional strengths— particularly in agriculture innovation, environmental stewardship, and technology-enabled solutions to transform the future of the agriculture industry. We are committed to building deeper partnerships, and creating new opportunities to improve the productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness of the livestock, crop, and ag-tech sectors—locally, regionally, and beyond.
Thank you once again for your trust, collaboration, and investment in our work. We look forward to continuing to innovate and grow together.
DR. FRANÇOIS PARADIS, DEAN OF APPLIED RESEARCH
WELCOME TO LIMITLESS!
The world around us is evolving faster than it ever has before. Now, more than ever, we need to stay on the cutting edge of innovation, and I am so proud of the way our applied research team has dedicated themselves to the task.
DR. ALICE WAINWRIGHT-STEWART, PRESIDENT AND CEO
We need to diversify, to find ways to feed the world that are economical, sustainable and agile. We need to be able to pivot with global uncertainty, to dive into emerging technologies and alternative practices. We need to support our decisions with sound analysis, research and objectivity.
Our applied research team is a powerhouse, dedicating their knowledge, skill, time and passion to supporting our producers and industry partners in developing innovative, made-in-Canada solutions that all Albertans and Canadians can depend on in the future. Investigating the applications of technology in the monitoring of bull activity, the automation of heifer selection, and precision spot spraying for weed control are only a few of the projects our researchers are engaged in. Read about these and more in this issue of Limitless!
Thank you to our researchers and their teams, our industry partners, and the students in class and on practicum who help out along the way.
Read on to find out more about the essential work our team is doing and how that work can equip you to keep up with the changing agricultural landscape.
MEET THE EXPERTS
Lakeland’s research scientists lead innovative, hands-on agricultural research that drives realworld impact for producers and industry.
DR. HAIDER ABBAS, CROP RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Dr. Haider Abbas leads the canola research program, bringing over 20 years of experience across continents, crops, and production systems. He translates science into practical tools by combining agronomic R&D, grower engagement, and field-based problemsolving. With previous roles at Ag-Quest, Cargill, and Corteva, his focus remains clear: helping farmers grow smarter and more sustainably. His current research aims to unlock canola’s full genetic potential through precision spraying and more efficient input management, enabling crops to better withstand pests, drought, and disease — ultimately delivering higher yields and a more resilient future for Canadian canola.
ROBYNE DAVIDSON, RDAR RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Robyne Davidson is a pulse and special crops research scientist with Lakeland College based in Lacombe. She has many years of experience conducting agricultural research trials on a wide variety of field crops within government, academia and the private sector. She has been researching pulse crop agronomy and disease management for the past 22 years, leading and conducting pulse research trials across Alberta and Western Canada.
DR. WILFRIED DOSSOUYOVO, INSTRUCTOR AND RESEARCHER, PRECISION
AGRICULTURE
Dr. Wilfried DossouYovo holds a PhD in soil and environment from Laval University. His expertise spans nutrient management, soil fertility, remote sensing and agricultural data science. At the core of his work is a commitment to advancing sustainable crop production through site-specific agronomy, modelling, and optimization. His current research direction includes the development of AI-powered fertilizer optimization tools, the use of remote sensing and GIS to support precision nutrient management, and the design of field trials focused on phosphorus, zinc, and greenhouse gas emissions in prairie cropping systems.
DR. OBIOHA DURUNNA, LIVESTOCK RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Before joining Lakeland College, Dr. Obi Durunna was a livestock specialist with the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, providing extension and research support to livestock producers. He had previously worked as a beef researcher with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Brandon, Man. Since joining Lakeland in 2018, Dr. Durunna has led a livestock research program that has a strong applied focus on livestock productionefficiency profiling, forage and grazing systems, identifying and developing strategies that reduce livestock carbon footprint while advancing the beef and dairy sector’s productivity.
DR. BALWINDER KUMAR, CROP RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Dr. Balwinder Kumar is a nationally and internationally recognized research scientist specializing in cereal and forage crop agronomy, conservation agriculture and nutrient management. With over 20 years of experience in research, teaching, extension and administration, he is renowned for advancing conservation agriculture, micronutrient biofortification, climateresilient cropping systems, intercropping and integrated crop-livestock solutions.
DR. SUSAN MARKUS, RDAR RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Dr. Susan Markus has over 30 years of extensive experience in beef cattle production and sheep nutrition. She holds a PhD in animal behaviour from the University of Alberta, a master’s in ruminant nutrition from the University of Manitoba, and a B.Sc. in agriculture from the University of Saskatchewan. While Dr. Markus’ research involvement varies from production, genomics, feed efficiency, and nutrition to economics, she maintains a key interest in supporting practical ideas from the livestock industry.
DR. BRENDA RALSTON, RDAR RESEARCH SCIENTIST
Dr. Brenda Ralston holds a B.Sc. in agriculture from the University of Alberta, M.Sc. in veterinary parasitology from the University of Calgary and a PhD in veterinary and biomedical sciences from Murdoch University in Perth, Western Australia. Her work focuses on animal welfare and wellness although she is now working on ruminant and environmental impact research with Nature’s Net Wrap.
STANDING TALL:
How strategic use of plant growth regulators help feed barley resist lodging
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Balwinder Kumar, crop research scientist, Dr. Haider Abbas, crop research scientist, Emily Gannon, research technician, summer students and other staff
COLLABORATORS: SARDA Ag Research, Donnelly, Alta., Farming Smarter, Lethbridge, Alta.
Summary:
Average barley yields have stagnated in recent years partly due to lodging, soil fertility decline and extreme climate variability. In 2022, the project “Maximizing feed barley yield while minimizing lodging” was launched with the aim of identifying effective plant growth regulator (PGR) strategies to reduce lodging and optimize grain yield. The study evaluates the interaction between barley genetics, PGR timing, dosage and tank mix combinations under Western Canada conditions.
FUNDERS:
Methodology:
Over three years, a total of nine Moddus (Trinexapac-ethyl) PGR treatments including control (no PGR) were evaluated across multiple growth stages and tank-mix combinations. These treatments were designed to optimize timing, dose, and synergistic interactions with other crop inputs.
Each treatment was assessed for its effect on plant height, lodging index, grain yield, and forage quality metrics, including crude protein and neutral detergent fibre (NDF) content.
This research was made possible through the generous support of our funding partners, including Alberta Grains, Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF), Manitoba Crop Alliance, SaskBarley, Alberta Beef Producers, RDAR (Results Driven Agriculture Research), and Syngenta. Their commitment to advancing practical solutions for lodging management in feed barley has been instrumental in driving this work forward for the benefit of producers across Western Canada.
Results:
• The study revealed strong support for the strategic use of Moddus PGR in reducing plant height and lodging across all sites.
• If you are a feed barley grower struggling with lodging, our result suggests that the current single and split application recommended by Syngenta is effective at reducing lodging under condition favorable to lodging. We also found that split application at 62.5 gai/ha at early tillering (GS 21-24) tank-mixed with herbicide followed by 62.5 gai/ha at stem elongation (GS 30-32) can also significantly reduce lodging and, under the right condition, can also results in yield increase.
• Choosing the right variety is key: AB Hague exhibited a significantly higher lodging index compared to CDC Austenson particularly in the southern area, while Esma’s lodging resistance was statistically similar to CDC Austenson and both were better than AB Hague.
• Effective lodging suppression was achieved through split Moddus applications, with the greatest reductions observed using higher rates or combinations with fungicide. Avoid excessive nitrogen, and balance fertility with potassium and micronutrients like copper to improve stem strength.
• Combining PGR applications with herbicide or fungicide passes saves time and boosts crop resilience, but timely harvest remains critical to prevent late-season lodging losses.
Best practices for managing lodging in feed barley:
PGR APPLICATION TIME MATTERS:
Apply Moddus at the recommended optimal growth stages. We found that split application i.e. @62.5gai/ha at early tillering (GS 21-24) with same dose at stem elongation (GS 30-32) is an option for producers that yield high net returns. Avoid applications that are too early or too late, as timing is critical for effective lodging control.
OPTIMIZE FERTILITY MANAGEMENT:
Avoid excessive nitrogen rates, which promote lush growth prone to lodging. Ensure a balanced nutrient program by incorporating adequate phosphorus (P) and potassium (K), and address micronutrient deficiencies especially copper (Cu) to strengthen stems and reduce lodging risk.
CHOOSE THE RIGHT VARIETY:
Select barley cultivars based on both yield potential and standability. In high-input systems or lodging-prone areas, prioritize varieties with proven lodging resistance, supported by appropriate PGR use.
MANAGE SEEDING RATES WISELY:
Use proper seeding rate to avoid overly dense stands, which can increase competition, promote taller growth and elevate lodging risk. Tailor seeding rates to variety characteristics and fertility levels.
PLAN TIMELY SEEDING AND HARVEST:
Plan for timely seeding of barley with seeding depth of 1.5-2.0 inch for firm crop and standability. Delaying harvest increases the chance of late-season lodging due to wind, rain or over-mature crops. Monitor crop maturity closely and harvest promptly to protect yield and quality.
CONSULT YOUR AGRONOMIST:
Remember that Moddus can be an effective tool under certain conditions to help increase your production but we always recommend to consult with your agronomist before making decisions.
FROM FULL COVERAGE TO SPOT CONTROL:
Smarter spraying starts here
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Haider Abbas, crop research scientist, Lakeland College, led this field-based research project with his crop team at Vermilion and in-kind support from Croplands Equipment.
Summary:
As no-tillage and minimum-tillage practices take root across Canadian grain farms, they’ve brought a wave of benefits such as reducing soil erosion, improving soil structure and boosting water efficiency. But there’s a twist. These soilsaving methods have reshaped weed dynamics. The result? Weed resistance and shrinking options for effective control.
Herbicide-resistant weeds aren’t just a future threat. They’re a new normal and they hurt profitability. So, what are farmers to do if they do not want to revert to the tillage for weed control?
The Weed-IT sprayers used in this project are equipped with state-of-the-art modular sensors
Methodology:
mounted on the boom, capable of scanning the soil and crop residue 7,000 times per second— even while moving at speeds of up to 25 km/h. This advanced “green-on-brown” technology detects chlorophyll in real time, allowing the system to identify and target only living weeds against a non-vegetative background. As soon as a weed is detected, individual nozzles activate instantly to deliver a precise dose of herbicide. The result is smarter, more efficient weed control—reducing chemical usage, cutting input costs and delivering measurable gains in sustainability and productivity for modern farming operations.
In 2023 and 2024, Lakeland College’s crop team conducted field-based pre-burn trials using Conquer II + RT540 in canola to assess the economic benefits of the spot sprayer. Technology was also featured in live field demonstrations during Lakeland College Field Day, designed to inform and engage local growers.
Results:
Trial results showed that blanket spraying cost $15.89 per acre. The dual spray approach, which combines a blanket spray with an additional spot spray (1.5x rate) on detected weeds, was slightly more expensive at $17.08 per acre.
But here’s the surprising part: over two years, spot spraying alone not only cost less and reduced herbicide use by up to 86 per cent, it also improved average yields, delivering five per cent more than blanket spray and seven per cent more than dual spray.
KEY TAKEAWAY:
Spot spraying appears to be not only a costsaving strategy to control herbicide-resistant weeds; it could also enhance yield performance.
Why it’s important:
Giving producers the tools to turn insight into impact. Precision spot spraying is rewriting the rules of weed management. Unlike traditional blanket spraying, this cutting-edge technology pinpoints and targets only the weed. It dramatically cuts herbicide use, reducing environmental impact and costs, with fewer refills and faster application.
Spot spraying isn’t just a pre-burn tool collecting dust the rest of the year; it’s a season-long asset. From in-crop passes with selective herbicides, micronutrients, or bio-stimulants, to fungicide applications and even desiccation, it targets only the green, cutting waste and making every drop count.
While the advantages are evident, the adoption of this technology across North America remains modest. Farmers cite steep upfront costs (52 per cent) and uncertain returns (40 per cent) as roadblocks to embracing these smart systems. However, given the strong triple bottom line argument, precision tools like Weed-it deserve attention.
What’s Next:
The 2023 and 2024 yield data show variation across multiple spray modes (blanket, dual, and spot) and have prompted a project to conduct a comprehensive soil analysis of microbial activity under these different spraying methods. The research results from this trial will correlate with findings from the new project examining the impact of herbicide use on microbes. According to the literature, herbicides can reduce the diversity and abundance of crucial soil microorganisms, which play essential roles in nutrient cycling and organic matter decomposition. These findings will help us better understand the impact of herbicides on microbial populations and their potential effect on yield. The environmental impact of different spray modes will also play a crucial role in the broader adoption of this technology.
For the complete project report, visit lakelandcollege.ca/research-projects
BISONSENSE: PAVING THE WAY FOR THE FUTURE
Bison are wild animals in the process of being domesticated and too much handling can have negative affects on their growth and productivity. Finding non-invasive ways to monitor the animals is imperative to increasing the sustainability of the bison industry.
For bachelor of agriculture technology student Brittnay Thomas, this has presented a unique opportunity – a practicum with Lakeland College’s applied research team, working on the development of BisonSense, a fully-autonomous system to monitor bison.
The unit allows bison to pass through it in single file, with laser sensors to trigger activation. The cameras take images of the face and dorsal body position of each animal, identified with an RFID ear tag. Each time an animal crosses through the system, information about their identification, body weight, images and
weather data is collected. The unit has an off-grid wind and solar power supply and LTE connectivity, allowing data to be collected remotely.
With this information, producers are able to assess the growth of the animals, as well as body condition. They are able to calculate metabolic rates and it assists in early disease detection.
“It’s fascinating to work on something relatively new to the industry,” says Thomas. “It’s a valuable tool that supports both bison and producers alike, offering insights into the animal’s well-being and enhancing decision-making for producers.”
Primarily funded by Alberta Innovates, the unit was developed in partnership with NAIT Applied Research’s Centre for Sensors and System Integration. It was installed June 2024 at Irish Creek bison ranch, north of Vermilion, Alta.
Photo courtesy of NAIT Applied Research’s Centre for Sensors and System Integration.
THE PULSE ON PULSES
To say that pulses have impacted Alberta’s cropping industry over the past 20 years would be an understatement. Alberta’s prairies have large-scale grain farming, often on nitrogendepleted soils. With pulses’ capacity to fix nitrogen, these crops have gained the attention of crop producers in Alberta. Field peas are the most common pulse grown and have witnessed over a 100 per cent increase in the last 10 years; dry beans have grown in acreage from 47,000 acres to 76,283 acres. Lentils have experienced the most significant increase and faba beans weren’t grown in any measurable amount in 2004.
Lakeland College’s crop researchers Robyne Davidson, Trina Dubitz and their research crew ensure pulses will have a place in crop rotations in the future. With every crop, producers face challenges. Pulse crops struggle with root rot diseases, which present as poor or no emergence, death of seedlings, stunted growth, yellowing plants and root discoloration. This may be patches in the field or in extreme cases, the entire field. The two primary pathogens that cause root rot are Fusarium species and Aphanomyces. Difficult to distinguish, researchers have found that Fusarium is widely distributed and quite opportunistic, whereas Aphanomyces is very aggressive on pea and
lentil crops. Both diseases like warmer soil temperatures and moisture. A DNA test is the best method to get a true diagnosis.
Davidson and associates’ research has explored cover cropping, product testing, seed treatments, rotational trials, intercropping and the use of lime across Alberta and Saskatchewan. There is no clear answer, and more research is needed. Best management practices are still the best line of defence. Crop rotation is the most effective tool (six-to-eight years), and while seed treatments are important for early-season suppression, they are not a control option for Aphanomyces. Vigilance and knowing the fields are critical to managing the problem; keep records of the fields to get a clearer picture from year to year. Aphanomyces disease issues appear in wetter years, so carefully monitoring pulse crops during higher moisture occurrences is important for this disease in particular. Fertile, well-drained fields with fall weed control and a pulse crop six-to-eight years earlier are better choices for success. Using a high-quality variety suited to the area that has been treated and inoculated is also important. Root rot pathogens are present in all Alberta fields; no one is excluded. How the fields, equipment and seed are managed is the first line of defence to reducing these pathogens’ impact on the pulse crop.
Faba beans
Chickpeas
Dry beans
Lentils
Field peas
ROOTED IN RESEARCH:
Exploring lupins
High-protein. Lowstarch. Disease-resistant.
Lupins fix nitrogen, feed livestock, fuel plant-based foods — and could have a future significant role in prairie crop rotations.
Lakeland researchers Robyne Davidson and Trina Dubitz have been exploring an alternate pulse crop option: lupins.
High in protein, oil and fibre while low in starch, this plant was bred for crop production, and the alkaloids in our native lupins were removed. Lupins were domesticated about 50 years ago and while Europe experiences the highest yields, Australia accounts for 80 per cent of the world’s production and is the only significant exporter.
Three main types are being trialed in Alberta: narrowleaf blue, wide-leaf white,
and yellow. The narrow leaf blue lupin is most suited for Alberta’s climate, is easier to grow and similar in size to field peas. The white lupin is preferred by the industry but is later maturing and harder to handle.
Lupins make an excellent fish feed, but the economics are not quite there due to market volatility. Lupins could also be added to livestock rations (mainly dairy) as an alternative to soybeans with a high protein content; the main problem is that their higher oil content makes them harder to process.
On the human consumption
front, lupins are being processed into whole-seed snacks, canned and fractioned into further ingredients for hummus-like products, flours, non-dairy products and more.
Unlike some legumes, lupins fix nitrogen until the end of their flowering. The soil pH needs to be below 7.2 and they are moderately sensitive to salinity. These cool-season pulses require 8-10 inches of moisture throughout the season. Short in stature, lupins have a woody stem, so they don’t lodge.
Davidson and her team have been researching lupins since 2004. The main problem
with adoption has been the markets, but with the increased interest in plant-based protein, their interest has returned, and additional markets are developing.
The seeding rate depends on the type and weeds can be a problem; they don’t compete well. The grass herbicides are registered for lupins, and they work well; it’s the broadleaf weeds that can be the problem because the common pulse herbicides for broadleaf weeds can’t be used. Therefore, the most effective herbicide recipe is a perennial weed control the previous fall, Edge (ethafluralin) also applied in the fall (can be applied in the spring if necessary) and then a Squadron (metribuzin) application up to the five-tosix leaf stage. Due to their later maturity, seeding at 1.5 inches should be done early. Thankfully, they can tolerate spring frosts.
The seed must be inoculated with a live bacterial rhizobium
to encourage nodulation, and they require significant phosphorus levels (25 lbs/ acre - similar to field pea) for nitrogen fixation. Potassium is also required at levels higher than field pea; however, adequate levels are naturally present in most prairie soils. More research is required to determine the optimum levels of potassium, sulfur, and micronutrients for production.
Disease and insect impacts appear to be minimal. Anthracnose and sclerotinia can be a problem under the right conditions, and the root rot complex has the potential to become a problem in wet years. However, with the hefty tap root, it seems that lupins can withstand more fungal pressure. Research has confirmed that lupins are resistant to Aphanomyces, which adds value to crop rotations. The only insect found to be of concern is the blister beetle, which loves lupins, although is likely not an issue at a field scale level.
To harvest lupins before the snow flies, desiccation is required. Reglone (diquat), glyphosate, Heat (saflufenacil) and glyphosate + Heat are all appropriate. Blue lupins are typically sprayed at 80 per cent pod color change, while white lupins at 50 per cent. Straight cutting is the only way to harvest the crop because swathing causes the pods to shatter. Due to the stronger stem, the material can be tougher to cut, especially if stems are still green.
Before lupins can be included as part of a crop rotation, more research and experience are needed to ensure the success of producers adopting the crop and market buyers are in place.
IMPACTS OF ALTOSID INSECT
GROWTH REGULATOR ON HORN
FLY POPULATIONS IN CANADA:
Supplement intake and fecal residue concentrations of Methoprene
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Obioha Durunna, livestock research scientist, Lakeland College.
Summary:
This project investigates the impact of Altosid Insect Growth Regulator’s (IGR) impact on fly abundance and animal performance in grazing cow-calf pairs in western Canada.
Methodology:
The study was conducted in two sites: Everblack Angus Farms in Vermilion, Alta., and Manitoba Beef and Forage Initiatives in Brandon, Man. Each site had a control group and a treatment group, each with their own Smartfeed unit to measure individual supplement intake. 50 cow-calf pairs (Alta.) and 30 replacement heifers (Man.), each randomly assigned to either the Altosid IGR-infused group or the control group, were included in the study.
Before the trials began, the animals were photographed, weighed and ultrasound scans for backfat and rumpfat were collected.
The trials ran from July 2 until Sept. 3, 2024 in Brandon and July 16 until Sept. 5, 2024 in Vermilion.
At the end of the trial, supplement intake was evaluated and fecal samples directly from each animal were collected. Photographic fly counts were undertaken, as well as information on animal weight, backfat, and rumpfat.
Field dung samples were also collected from the Vermilion site and tested for the levels of the active ingredient (methoprene). The emergence of flies and other dung insects from these samples was also monitored at weekly intervals.
Results:
The results showed that fewer flies emerged from dung pats from treated animals compared to untreated. The level of methoprene in those dung pats met the expected threshold for the methoprene. The flies on the backs of the cows that were counted from the pictures were not different between the two groups, likely due to migrating flies from untreated nearby pastures. Flies from those animals may have migrated into the trial area and confounded results. Further study will use isolated livestock to minimize this migration.
Why it’s important:
Investigating the impact of feeding Altosidinfused mineral supplements provides important information about the commercials product to Canadian cattle producers and enables them to make informed purchasing decisions.
For the complete project report, visit lakelandcollege.ca/research-projects
Ultrasound scans- Vermilion site
HEIFER SELECTION STRATEGIES:
Does she stay or does she go?
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Susan Markus, livestock research scientist, Lakeland College.
Summary:
This project investigated the use of genomics with phenotypes to better predict the success (longevity) of replacement beef heifers in the cow herd - especially past their second calving. The objective of this project was to identify which variables are associated with greater reproductive performance (higher number of pregnancies) so replacement heifer selection can be done at an earlier age/stage in the production cycle.
Methodology:
After selecting the heifers from reputable heifer development herds for conformation, age, weight and crossbred breed types, they had rumen boluses inserted and DNA collected and analyzed. The heifers needed to be 55-65 per cent of their mature body weight at breeding. Heifers were given an internal ultrasound to assess reproductive tracts for any abnormalities and then scored for maturity on a scale of one to five. This scan identified immature or abnormal ovaries and uterus as well as found freemartins.
Based on remote sensing rumen bolus technology that Dr. Markus’ team implemented in this project (providing daily water intake
frequency, internal temperature and activity indicators to alert for estrus), the flightier heifers (based on a chute exit score) did not settle after processing and had elevated temperatures, reduced water and/or feed intake for a longer time period compared to the more docile heifers, resulting in poorer gains.
Breed composition and predicted growth, maternal and feed efficiency traits were gathered through DNA. Generally, hybrid vigour is an indicator of longevity and efficiency. Increased hybrid vigour is known to improve weaning weights, disease susceptibility and hardiness of the offspring.
Results:
The investigation of new technologies and processes for improving decisionmaking regarding reproductive selection and efficiency evaluations of beef heifers has uncovered numerous benefits and issues. Key results include:
• The research found strong correlations between those heifers who ended up open and their reproductive tract scoring being low. It is an excellent assessment to avoid turning reproductively unsound females out to valuable pasture resources for breeding.
• Females with body condition scores >2.75, teat scores that were not too large, nor too small on a nine-point scale, and those that shed more hair earlier in the spring/summer period tended to be the heifers that got pregnant early or in the first two cycles in both of their calvings.
• Hip height was also significant with a negative correlation to these fertility measures. Heifers that were too tall were less fertile than the moderate framed ones for the breeding programs in the herds studied. Uterine horn diameter was significant and negatively correlated to fertility and calving outcomes. However, it may be explained because those taller, larger framed heifers with more continental breed influence had proportionately larger reproductive tracts. This reinforces the notion of selecting for the more moderate breeding females and not for the extreme small or large heifers. Clearly, visual appraisal and specific conformation assessments of heifers are good measures to select replacement breeding heifers.
Why it’s important:
• A breed influence was evident as these more fertile, early calving heifers tended to have more British breed influence and less Continental breed with approximately 65 per cent British/maternal and 35 per cent continental/terminal breed composition.
• There is merit in the genomic tools with breed composition having value when sorting animals into mating groups for next year’s breeding season if ranchers wish to optimize hybrid vigour in the offspring. Such a tool allows for optimum bull breed selection to complement crossbred heifers. Selecting heifers based only on coat colour is not accurate enough to optimize the hybrid vigour and fertility outcomes.
• Return on investment calculations can show positive and worthwhile outcomes under certain scenarios when utilizing these various technologies, including reproductive tract scoring to sort females into breeding groups and genomic indexes for genetic assessment management.
The financial risk of developing replacement heifers (currently ranging in cost from $2,500-4,500/head) that don’t perform is reduced when they are evaluated beyond their external conformation and coat colour. Identifying sub-fertile and poorer genetic heifers early provides the opportunity to move them into a later breeding program to allow them to mature, or cull and market them at an optimal time and reduce the overall cost of the replacement heifer program on the ranch.
For the complete project report, visit lakelandcollege.ca/research-projects
NUTRITIONAL WISDOM:
Why cows just aren’t that smart
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Brenda Ralston and her research team at Lakeland College and industry partner Alberta Veterinary Laboratories Ltd. (AVL) (Calgary, Alta.)
Summary:
Genetic advances in the cattle industry have resulted in animals with rapid growth rates and increased production efficiencies requiring critical minerals and vitamins (M/V). As cow-calf producers strive to become more efficient through extended grazing programs such as fall/winter swath and bale grazing, the industry standard of providing free-choice M/V supplements to herds often results in sporadic consumption by individual animals. In most cases, this is insufficient to compensate for the decreased M/V availability in winter pasture, crop residue and stored feed. Can a neonatal supplement mitigate this deficiency?
Methodology:
The research team benchmarked neonatal M/V deficiencies (Vit A, Vit E, Selenium (Se), Iron (Fe)) in calves and their dams at calving in Lakeland College’s (LC) purebred, commercial and dairy herds as well as local participating producers’ herds.
Results indicate that 44 per cent of cows being supplemented M/V free choice before calving were deficient in Vit A and, to a lesser extent, deficient in Vit E and Se at calving; 67 per cent of calves were deficient in Vit A, 13 per cent in Vit E, 32 per cent in Fe and 94 per cent in Se at birth. These findings are consistent with Waldner et al. (2017), where 58.3 per cent of
calves had below-adequate Vit A levels and were 2.8 times more likely to die, and calves deficient in Vit E (12.9 per cent) were 3.2 times more likely to be treated for scours.
Half of the LC study calves making up the treatment group received the oral neonatal supplement Vitaferst-Care manufactured by AVL (Se, Vit A, D, E and B12) approximately 24 hours after birth when the calves had nursed and mothered up, and while producers were catching the calves to do other management procedures such as tagging and castrating. The control group of the calves received an oral saline placebo.
Results:
Blood samples were collected from both groups and analyzed for M/V levels three days after treatment. We didn’t see a significant increase in the M/V levels in the serum between the two groups; however, serum samples are not as accurate a measure as liver biopsies for some M/V, which may be why we didn’t see a significant difference. In a similar study where serum samples were collected oneday post-treatment, there was a rise in M/V levels in the calves.
Why it matters:
In further research, we would like to evaluate improving the M/V status of all animals in the herd by taking a systems approach. One way would be to boost the M/V levels with an oral drench or injection; several adult formulations are available in the marketplace. The intention is not to “make” more work for producers; rather, they could “top up” each animal’s levels by providing a supplement when the cattle are handled in the chute.
At the time of handling, animals are often stressed and may also be getting a vaccination. Some research suggests that this is an optimal time to boost their M/V which may set the
animals’ immune system up for a more robust response to the vaccine administered. Adding individual supplementation is not to replace the free choice supplement but rather to “boost” each animal’s M/V level at convenient times for the animals and producers.
The first step for producers is to evaluate their herd’s nutritional status through evaluating their production records and consulting with their nutritionist and veterinarian. If M/V intervention is required, the team can help you develop a strategy for your management system.
Neonatal supplement
Collecting blood sample
POLYCROPS OR MONOCROPS:
Which system is better for backgrounding weaned calves?
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Obioha Durunna, livestock research scientist, Lakeland College.
Summary:
Can a polycrop system facilitate better land stewardship and animal welfare than the conventional monocrop system?
Methodology:
From 2021 to 2024, researchers at Lakeland College evaluated both monocrop and polycrop forage systems, examining economics, forage characteristics, animal performance, soil quality and virtual management tools.
In the first week of June each year, three paddocks were seeded with an oat monocrop while three were seeded with a polycrop consisting of oat, forage peas, rapeseed and turnips. The crops were swathed in August and September and steers grazed from November to January/February. Seven-to-10 steers grazed each paddock yearly.
Results:
FORAGE QUALITY:
While the cost and forage yield was slightly better for the monocrop, the polycrop proved more forage utilization efficiency (72 per cent vs. 58 per cent). However, the greater oat yield resulted in greater residues because all animals were allotted new swaths whenever a paddock ran short of feed resources. The extra residues may have supported additional animals in the oat monocrop paddocks.
Most of the forage nutritive values (e.g. crude protein and TDN) from both systems were similar, but the soluble sugar content was greater in the polycrop. Even though the sulphur contents in the brassicas were high (0.63 to 0.68 per cent), they were diluted to safer levels (0.28 per cent) in the forage mix, thereby assuaging any safety concerns in feeding the polycrops.
There was no difference in the average daily gains of the steers assigned to either the oat (0.70 kg/day) or polycrops (0.67 kg/d). At the end of the grazing period, there was no difference in average dry matter intake or back fat thickness measured in animals in both groups.
SOIL QUALITY:
Even though the results did not show any significant change for the majority of physicochemical characteristics of the soil, the polycrops had a more favourable water infiltration duration. The soil biology analysis showed that the polycrops system maintained more uniform microbial communities over the three years than the oat monoculture system.
The study showed that oat monoculture produced more biomass but had similar nutritive values as the polycrops. The cost of swath was slightly lower for the oats monoculture, but both systems had similar effects on the steers’ body performance and soil health, which suggests that a polycrop mixture can be a viable alternative to oat monoculture for winter swath grazing with young beef steers.
Even though swathgrazing can reduce production costs by about 40 per cent, only 20 per cent of western Canadian cow-calf producers have adopted swathgrazing as a preferred extensive grazing method. Top reasons that prevent them from adopting this system are potential biomass wastes or losses to wildlife intrusions and frigid weather. Adopters of swathgrazing have done so because of the labour-use and fuel-use savings. For the complete project report, visit lakelandcollege.ca/research-projects
WHERE’S YOUR BULL?
Remote assessment of bull location and breeding activity on pasture using GPS technology
Who:
RESEARCHER: Dr. Susan Markus, livestock research scientist, Lakeland College, with funding from RDAR (Results Driven Agriculture Research).
Summary:
Increased land competition means that western Canadian commercial cow-calf operations are forced to use marginal or heavily wooded, expansive grazing lands in remote area. The applied research livestock research team investigated direct-to-satellite monitoring of cattle on pasture using GPS ear tags to locate bulls and monitor breeding.
Methodology:
Over the course of two years, all 16 bulls and 10 per cent of a 350-head cow herd were tagged with GPS trackers. Information of the location and activity of the bulls during a 65-day breeding season on harsh remote land was collected through the use of the GPS tags. The same animals were observed through weekly pasture checks and video captured via drone to validate the information collected.
Results:
Originally, it was assumed that bulls that didn’t travel as far would sire fewer offspring, but this wasn’t the case. Instead, bulls who had GPS coordinates which consistently matched more closely to the cow herd’s grazing movements sired significantly more calves. Some bulls would periodically rest or return to common loafing areas while cow groups rotationally grazed the pastures.
This observation reinforces the notion that bulls use their sense of sight first to identify cows in oestrus and if separated from cows, they may lack motivation to search them out during the breeding season, resulting in fewer mating opportunities.
While it’s common sense that bulls who stay with the cows have more chances to breed, it was difficult to identify those bulls through pasture checks without the GPS data to validate the information.
Aside from tracking the offspring produced by bulls, the use of GPS tags can also help identify and locate sick or injured bulls so they can be treated or replaced more efficiently.
Additionally, a return on investment calculator was created, using typical assumptions about time, labour, fuel, and a 30 per cent GPS tag replacement cost. Through the use of this calculator, it was determined that pastures more than 50 km from home will find GPS tags as a decent investment in bull and cattle tracking.
GPS tag attachment
IMMERSIVE INNOVATION: REVITALIZING THE STUDENT-
MANAGED FARM
Lakeland College’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) is at the heart of the college’s long history of providing hands-on, job-ready learning and innovative agricultural research. With 3,700+ college-owned acres, approximately 720 mature animals and 10 essential ag facilities, the SMF offers vital programs in crop and animal science technology, veterinary technology and more. In fact, nearly 700 students are enrolled in Lakeland’s nine agricultural sciences programs – up 210 per cent in 15 years.
To remain a competitive leader in immersive learning and rural sustainability, Lakeland must continue to
INCREASED CAPACITY: A NEW LANDMARK FOR CAMPUS
modernize the SMF, setting a new benchmark for agricultural education in Alberta.
Lakeland’s Farm Master Plan will be completed in phases. To date, work is already underway on the beef yard, modernizing the G.N. Sweet Livestock Research Facility and construction of a wetland and post-harvest facility. Other projects include investing in the Equine Centre, Dairy Learning Centre biodigester, vertical farm lab and more.
There’s a new landmark on Lakeland College’s Vermilion campus – a 5,000-bushel grain bin proudly displaying Lakeland’s logo, courtesy of Meridian Manufacturing Ltd.
Crop technology students have long advocated for increased grain storage on Lakeland College’s Student-Managed Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF). The additional storage gives students a larger window of time to market grain, helping them hone their marketing skills and potentially capitalize on stronger prices. The new bin is also equipped with an aeration system to cool and dry grain, further enhancing learning opportunities.
“Meridian is proud to support the next generation of agricultural leaders through our donation of a grain bin to Lakeland College’s SMF,” says Jacob Welde, Meridian’s marketing manager.
“We are very excited to contribute to a program that provides such valuable, hands-on learning opportunities. At Meridian, we believe that real world experience is essential in shaping confident, capable farmers—and the SMF is a perfect example of this in action.”
STUDENTS TAKE TOP HONOURS AT CONFERENCE
Two students who presented posters showcasing ongoing applied research projects at Lakeland College finished in first and second place at the Canadian Beef Industry Conference (CBIC) in Saskatoon in 2024. The competition consisted of two categories: college/ undergrad/diploma and master’s/PhD students.
“Involving students at all post-secondary levels in our work in applied research is essential to the longevity of research in agriculture,” says Dr. François Paradis, dean of applied research at Lakeland College. “It helps develop the next generation of research scientists who in turn will go on to study methodologies to make the industry more sustainable and efficient. We are always incredibly proud when our students represent Lakeland and the work we do so well at important events like this one. Congratulations!”
Stephanie Ullrich, who placed first in the competition, presented a poster called “Where’s my bull and is he working,” which contained an overview of a Lakeland study under Dr. Susan Markus’ supervision which investigates the use of GPS to monitor bull productivity.
RDAR FUNDING PRESERVES RESEARCH CAPACITY
RDAR (Results Driven Agriculture Research) has pledged $1,598,583 over five years in additional funding to support Dr. Susan Markus, Dr. Brenda Ralston and Robyne Davidson’s research.
Markus’ research involves livestock technology, while Ralston focuses on livestock health. Davidson’s research involves pulse and special crops.
Kyleigh Magotiaux, who placed second, is working with Lakeland researcher Dr. Brenda Ralston on a project addressing the issues of vitamin and mineral deficiencies. Her poster, entitled “Enhancing cattle health and performance through targeted supplement optimization and evaluation.”
The posters provided research findings but were to be developed with a grassroots lens. It was important that the students’ presentations considered the producer’s viewpoint and created their posters accordingly.
COMMITTING TO COLLABORATION
Lakeland College and Western Crop Innovations (WCI) have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU). Sharing an interest in crop science, feed quality, enhanced student experiences, and more, this MOU serves as a formal statement of intent for both WCI and Lakeland College to work together on initiatives that advance agricultural research in Western Canada.
NEW COURSE: FORAGE HEALTH USING SHEEP AND GOATS
Lakeland College, the Alberta Lamb Producers and the Alberta Goat Association have teamed up to create a new Vegetation Management Accreditation program that aims to provide herd managers and producers with the details they need to graze sheep or goats and maintain forage health successfully.
The program includes modules on grazing principles, grazing tame and native forages, stockmanship and animal welfare, building a business plan and unique grazing.
For more information, contact admin@ablamb.ca.
INNOVATION ON DISPLAY
In April, students in Lakeland College’s bachelor of agricultural technology (BAgTech) program hosted the annual Farm 4.0 event, featuring a trade show, tech demonstrations, presentations, networking opportunities and farm tours, as well as an opportunity for graduating BAgTech students to share their practicum reports. Guests included producers, industry leaders, community members and students.
GRAIN TRUCK GIFT OFFERS STUDENTS A SMOOTH RIDE
The crop harvesting experience on the StudentManaged Farm – Powered by New Holland (SMF) has gotten a little smoother with the addition of an upgraded 2017 Western Star tri-axel grain truck courtesy of alumnus and long-time Lakeland supporter Roy Kubica, Class of 1966.
The grain truck holds 850 bushels and is equipped with a silage end gate which ensures it can be used for multiple jobs on the farm. It joins the Demco 1050 grain cart Kubica gifted the college in 2022, both of which can now be used to harvest grain grown on the quarter of land six kilometers west of Lakeland’s Vermilion campus – the Roy Kubica Quarter.
MAKING AN IMPACT
2023–24 Annual Research Impact Scorecard
• $2.52M in sponsored research revenue from federal, provincial, industry, and other sources
• $494K internal investment from the College in applied research
• 97 unique research partnerships with industry/organizations
• 55 active projects — all with environmental implications
• 931 products/processes/services developed or enhanced
WORK WITH US
At Lakeland College, applied research means solving practical problems, working directly with industry, and helping Alberta’s economy grow.
Partner Satisfaction at a Glance
Would you work with Lakeland again?
100 per cent of respondents would consider working with Lakeland again
Project Success Rating:
6.4 stars out of 7
Faculty & Staff Engagement
• 2,490 hours of faculty engagement in research
• 8 faculty actively involved in applied research
• 32 non-faculty staff supporting research
• 4 courses developed/updated to incorporate research
Student Engagement
• 129 unpaid students exposed/ participating in research projects
• 19 paid students participating in research projects
• 1,412 cumulative number of students to date involved in applied research activities
What Makes Lakeland Stand Out?
Staff & Expertise
Personnel was excellent | Expertise from staff | Great knowledge | Technical expertise to a wide variety of animal science-based projects | Field support and access to amazing, talented hardworking students and faculty
Project Support & Services
Great overall service from project planning to execution | Assistance in study design | Research process and data collection | Up-todate research data and clear communication
