Western Crop Innovations

Round-Up was an excellent opportunity to connect with producers and discuss the latest in ag innovation with other passionate industry experts - thanks to RDAR for having us!

ICYMI: Round-Up 2026 was a HUGE success!
We'll be sharing videos, photos, and session summaries over the next few days. Check back on the event website to catch everything you may have missed.


https://ow.ly/AeH450Z4X7c

Another great interview from Alberta Seed Guide with our barley breeder, Yadeta! Read the full story here: https://www.seed.ab.ca/breeding-barley-for-an-uncertain-water-future/

What is the value of water?

For Prairie farmers, it’s measured in yield, quality, profitability — and increasingly, resilience.

As rainfall becomes more unpredictable, plant breeders are working to develop barley varieties that can make better use of available moisture, tolerate drought stress, and maintain performance when conditions turn challenging.

Western Crop Innovations breeder Yadeta Kabeta says water variability has become one of the defining challenges facing Prairie crop production, making water-use efficiency a critical breeding target.

It's a timely reminder that the value of water isn't just about how much falls from the sky — it's also about how effectively crops can use it.

Read the story in the comments!

Registration for WCI's AGM and Program Update is open now through June 7! RSVP here: https://wci-agm-2026.eventbrite.ca/?aff=FB

Pre-registration is required to attend. This event will be held in-person at the Lacombe Memorial Centre on June 10th - all are welcome!

Western Crop Innovations AGM 2026 Join us for our program update and annual general meeting for the 2025-26 fiscal year.

April is an exciting time around the research farm! Preparations and planning for planting season have been in full swing.

Learn more in our monthly newsletter: https://mailchi.mp/ad1ad16980b4/wci-newsletter-april-2026
Sign up for our mailing list here: http://eepurl.com/iO9Zn-/

We're looking forward to attending this year's RDAR Round-Up! You'll find WCI in the "Knowledge Hub" 🧠💡

Check out the registration page for more info!

Registration is now open!
RDAR's annual Round-Up returns to Cremona, AB on June 17, and this year we're diving deep into digital agriculture and AI. Join us to explore how these tools can boost profitability, sustainability, and impact across your operation.
Secure your spot today.
https://ow.ly/Oey150YKEIB

Coming up -- WCI will be at the Lacombe & District Chamber of Commerce spring tradeshow next Friday and Saturday, April 17 & 18!

We’re looking forward to connecting with members of the Lacombe and Lacombe County community, sharing our history, what we do today, and how we'll continue to support Canadian agriculture into the future.

Tradeshow highlights include:
- Hiring & Recruitment Fair
- Free Family Photo Booth
- Pokémon Play & Trade
- Free Bounce Castles
- Super Smash Bros Tournament with prizes
- Money Tunnel with prizes
- Pet Adoption Event

There’s something for everyone! Be sure to stop by our booth to say hello and pick up some free goodies.

More info at: https://www.lacombechamber.ca/events-and-awards/trade-show/