"D'Arcy Hilgartner is stepping into the role of board chair at RDAR (Results Driven Agriculture Research) as the organization continues to sharpen its focus on delivering practical research to Alberta producers. A long-time board member, Hilgartner says the priority remains clear: ensuring research investments translate into measurable value on the farm. "Our overall vision is always about accelerating adoption of results... putting that research into action," says Hilgartner, speaking at Crossroads Crop Conference at Edmonton, Alta."
"Looking ahead to 2026, RDAR's priorities reflect both ongoing and emerging challenges. Water management, value-added production, and the integration of new technologies such as artificial intelligence are all areas of focus. Extension also plays a central role in project evaluation. Hilgartner describes it as "that final mile... getting that research into the hands of producers," noting that clear knowledge-transfer plans weigh heavily in funding decisions."
D'Arcy Hilgartner assumes the RDAR board chair role with a focus on translating research into measurable on-farm value. RDAR operates as an independent, producer-led organization established after the 2019 provincial funding model change. The board combines diverse producers across commodities to guide investments spanning crops, livestock, and emerging opportunities. Priorities for 2026 include water management, value-added production, and integrating technologies such as artificial intelligence. Extension and clear knowledge-transfer plans are central to evaluation and funding, described as the final mile to reach producers. RDAR funded over 550 projects, investing $126 million and leveraging nearly three times that through partnerships.
Read at Realagriculture
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