GRO set to host roundtable discussions inThorhild

By Brandie Majeau
The Gateway Research Organization (GRO) will be at the Thorhild Legion on the
afternoon of November 26 to bring producers together in a GROwers Community
Roundtable. As stated on their webpage, the Gateway Research Organization is
“Research led by farmers for farmers. Applied research on crops, forage, soil health,
sustainability, and livestock production.” GRO, in layman’s terms, explains that its
mandate is to conduct local research and host local events. But who are they?
The Gateway Research Organization is a dynamic non-profit group committed to
advancing applied research in agriculture, proudly headquartered in Westlock, Alberta.
Their mission is to tackle the diverse challenges inherent in agricultural research,
empowering farmers and producers to concentrate on what they excel at, successful
farming, of course.
Guided by a dedicated board of directors composed of experienced industry
professionals, they continually push the boundaries of agricultural innovation. Their
passionate team, driven by curiosity and a commitment to practical solutions, diligently
explores new methodologies to enhance productivity and sustainability in farming. The
Gateway Research Organization actively seeks input from local agricultural committees,
ensuring their research initiatives are relevant and also effectively address the specific
needs and concerns of the community.
At the core of the GRO mission is the conviction that simplifying and increasing
the profitability of farming operations creates a win-win scenario for producers and
consumers alike. They pride themselves on delivering high-quality research that is
rigorously unbiased, scientifically robust, and meticulously tailored to the distinct
growing conditions and soil types found in the local region. Through collaboration with a
diverse network of experts, ranging from agronomists and environmental scientists to
representatives from government agencies and educational institutions, research
capabilities are enriched and an individual’s understanding of agricultural ecosystems
deepened. Their goal is to illuminate innovative ideas, investigate critical agricultural
topics, and encourage active engagement with local producers to gather invaluable
insights that inform more effective farming decisions. 
GRO is also honoured to be a member of the Agricultural Research and
Extension Council of Alberta (ARECA). This affiliation opens doors to collaborative
opportunities and vital support from a wide array of research and forage associations
across the province. ARECA serves as a collective voice, advocating for the agricultural
community and assisting in addressing shared organizational development needs.
Together, they work and strive to enhance the agricultural landscape in Alberta for the
benefit of all producers, aspiring to set new standards of excellence in agricultural
research and innovation.
The roundtable on November 26 will be the first event this winter for the area.
GRO Manager Andria Carlyon explained that it is a good starting point, as their

organization receives contributions from Thorhild County, and that it is an excellent
opportunity for local producers to ask questions. The roundtable will be held in a format
of three separate table discussions. Representatives from Scattered Spruce Ag
Services (Grant Applications), Gateway Research Organization (FHB Agronomy &
Local Trials), and G3 Morinville (Grain Marketing) will act as speakers for each table. As
table talk rotates between speakers, the goal is to keep it relaxed and simple. Carlyon
explains more like a discussion, not a speaker/audience structure. The idea for hosting
events in these local communities come from the understanding that people want to
drive 15 min to attend events, not an hour.
Pre-registration is encouraged for organizational purposes and planning;
however, it is not mandatory if a producer learns of this event at the last minute.
Gratitude is extended to the local North Corridor Co-op for their generous contribution of
donuts. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, GRO will be facilitating additional events
in surrounding communities, such as Athabasca, Westlock, and Barrhead.