In line with this year's Co-operative Week theme, "Innovating the Co-operative Way," UFA's three-year on-farm commercial pilot with MyLand in Southern Alberta's Irrigation District exemplifies how collective problem-solving and community focus drive co-operative success. The commercial pilot will be integrating MyLand's proprietary technology and Soil as a Service to enhance the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the soil. This integration aims to result in enhanced soil fertility, optimized crop yields, and the promotion of eco-friendly farming practices through the MyLand Service. Four UFA members are participating across six quarter sections of land, growing potatoes, durham wheat, barley, sugar beets, and timothy hay, with a focus on integrating innovative practices into traditional farming.
Central to this pilot is the emphasis on collaboration and open communication. Member meetings at the start and end of each growing season create space for participants to share insights, address challenges, and propose collective solutions. This process not only strengthens individual farms but also fosters a sense of shared ownership and accountability, aligning with the values of collaboration, respect, and integrity.
The project highlights progressive thinking by integrating new practices into existing farm operations, enhancing both productivity and sustainability. By working together, members maximize the impact of their efforts and create solutions that benefit the broader agricultural community.
This pilot showcases how co-operatives can innovate while staying true to their core principles, fostering community-driven progress that reflects the values of performance, accountability, and agility. Together, these efforts ensure a sustainable and resilient future for the co-operative and its members.
To read more about UFA and MyLand's collaboration and the Commercial Project to enhance soil health in Alberta, revisit the original news announcement here.
