New dairy research facility to model sustainable animal agriculture

Guelph, ON – A new livestock research centre intended to model sustainable animal agriculture systems is being planned by the University of Guelph (U of G), the Ontario government and the Ontario dairy industry.

The Research and Innovation Centre, Dairy Phase, will be built at the current site of Elora Research Station in Elora, ON, one of the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO) facilities operated by U of G under its partnership agreement with the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).

Future phases of the project may include research facilities for swine, poultry and beef.

“This world-class facility will position Ontario at the forefront of innovation and technology development in agri-food, particularly for livestock research,” said Rich Moccia, U of G’s associate vice-president (strategic partnerships).

Construction of the first phase of the new complex, involving both new facilities and renovations, is expected to begin later this year.

The complex will bring together scientists from many disciplines to study rural/urban environmental, social and economic issues. Research will cover human health; food safety; animal welfare, productivity and reproduction; new products and procedures; and bioengineering and renewable energy.

The project is ultimately expected to create 25 full-time positions at the Elora station.