WESTLOCK – A delegation from Gateway Research Organization (GRO) gave a presentation to Westlock County on July 9 to better explain their work and its value to county residents.
Jay Byer and Kabal Singh told council that they are seeking a conditional funding agreement of about $5,000 with Westlock County.
“We are known as the go-to research association across the province,” said Byer.
GRO is involved in research directly related to crops and environmental sustainability. They provide agricultural research, demonstrations, and extension for producers to enhance farm productivity and economic returns.
Through collaboration with Westlock County’s Agriculture Service Board, Byer said they may be able to help in activities beyond the current resources of the municipality's agriculture department. In addition, if Westlock County provides support to GRO, this would help them obtain support from other counties.
Councillors Jared Stitsen and Sherri Provencal wanted to know how farmers can access GRO’s information and how GRO provides those, such as seniors who are not online, with the results of their studies.
Byer and Singh said they reach producers through public meetings, social media, weekly podcasts, and printed annual reports.
County council accepted GRO’s presentation as information.