County steps in to protect CDC South research station

When history and innovation collide

Recently, a major County of Newell initiative was featured in the Alberta Seed Guide. The Crop Diversification Centre South, once known for its reputation as a cornerstone of agricultural research in our region, is now being highlighted for a locally led effort to secure its future.

When the Government of Alberta exited direct agricultural research in 2019, the future of the Crop Diversification Centre (CDC) South near Brooks became uncertain. With aging infrastructure, limited staff, and no long-term plan, a historic research facility that has supported irrigated agriculture since 1935 was at real risk.

In 2024, the County of Newell stepped in, assuming full operational responsibility for the site and introducing a cost-recovery model that attracts researchers, ag organizations, and seed companies, while reinvesting revenue back into the facility.

Today, CDC South is seeing renewed activity, welcoming new tenants, and attracting growing interest from across the agricultural sector.

Read the full article on page 16 and learn more about WHY revitalizing the CDC South matters > What Happens When a County Takes Over a Research Station? CDC South is Showing the Way