Ricahrdson Kellburn Farm in 1997
Kelburn Farm in 1997.
Photos courtesy of Ricahrdson.
 
WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA – This year marks 20 years since Kelburn Farm became Richardson’s first research and demonstration farm.

After the flood of 1997, Richardson transitioned Kelburn Farm from a commercial grain farm into a research and demonstration farm.


Kelburn has become a showcase farm for agriculture in Western Canada, Richardson said. It has allowed Richardson to work closely with its sponsors, agriculture industry, its employees and customers to put the latest agricultural technologies and equipment to the test.

“Kelburn has tremendous value for us and our partners,” said Peter Entz, assistant vice-president, Seed and Traits. “It is a place we can all meet, learn and discuss the issues of the day. We are tackling some relevant issues and providing a venue to educate and show how modern agriculture is performing and advancing.”

Richardson Kelburn Farm renovated in 2013
In 2013, Richardson renovated the building on the farm, like this main building.
 
Kelburn Farm also has become a prominent education center for employees, Richardson’s customers and students. Every year, Richardson welcomes more than 2,500 children to the farm for various agriculture related programs.

“To have the opportunity to take students and teachers out to a real working farm is amazing,” said Johanne Ross, executive-director forAgriculture in the Classroom-Canada.“Not every farm can host schools and the number of students we want to take out.”

In 2013, Richardson renovated the buildings on the farm. Every year, the buildings are used for training and events that bring together employees, customers and suppliers.

“It’s such a unique, value-added resource that Richardson has developed to allow all people to come out and get that experience on the farm,” said Ellen Pruden,Canola Eat Well director withManitoba Canola Growers.