HomeMy WebLinkAboutCall for Expressions of Interest Letter - CDC South
183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media
Phone: 403-362-3266
Fax: 888-361-7921
Email: administration@newellmail.ca
Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca
October 25, 2024
Subject: Call for Expressions of Interest – Crop Diversification Centre South Research & Cultural Assets
The County of Newell is pleased to announce an opportunity for organizations to express their interest in
accessing and utilizing the research and cultural assets at the Crop Diversification Centre South (CDCS) located
near Brooks, Alberta. The CDCS is a well-established facility with a rich history in supporting innovation and
development in the agricultural sector. Additionally, CDCS holds significant cultural and community value with
features such as an arboretum, scenic park space, and walking trails which provide an attracti ve setting for
recreational activities and cultural events.
Background
The CDCS facilities are spread across approximately 740 acres, consisting of irrigated research lands, park space,
state-of-the-art greenhouses, and a variety of specialized equipment. Historically, CDCS has been pivotal in
advancing agricultural research, including the development of new crop varieties, enhanced production
methods, and the introduction of diverse crop types suited for the southern Alberta region. Given the re gional
demand for research infrastructure, we are exploring partnerships with external organizations to maximize the
value of these assets.
Scope of Available Assets
The assets available for potential use include:
• Research Land: Irrigated fields suitable for crop trials, located at CDCS and nearby farms.
• Greenhouse Complex: Modern greenhouses currently sitting idle.
• Equipment: Equipment for field research, including tractors, seeders, and harvesters.
• Administrative and Support Facilities: Offices and storage facilities essential for ongoing research and
operational support.
• Park Space and Facilities: Well-treed and large irrigated lawns, picnic shelter and washroom facilities.
Goals for Collaboration
The objective is to enable agricultural innovation by granting access to CDCS’s resources to qualified
organizations under a streamlined, efficient management structure. This approach aims to:
• Support new and ongoing agricultural research initiatives,
• Facilitate the development of innovative crop varieties and production practices,
183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media
Phone: 403-362-3266
Fax: 888-361-7921
Email: administration@newellmail.ca
Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca
• Encourage investment in Alberta's agricultural sector.
Submission of Expressions of Interest
Organizations interested in utilizing CDCS resources for research, product development, related initiatives , or
cultural activities are invited to submit an expression of interest via email to administration@newellmail.ca.
Submissions should include:
1. Background information of the organization,
2. A description of the intended research project or cultural activities and related timelines,
3. Required resources (labour, land, greenhouse space, equipment),
4. Anticipated benefits to the community and agricultural sector,
Deadline: The Call for Expressions of Interest will remain open until key partnerships for 2025 and 2026 have
been established.
We look forward to receiving your expression of interest and exploring possibilities for collaboration. For
additional details, please contact the undersigned or visit the County’s CDCS website at
https://countyofnewell.ab.ca/cdcsouth.
Sincerely,
Matt Fenske, CPA, CA, CLGM
Chief Administrative Officer
403-794-2334
County of Newell