Ontario, Canada, will soon be home to what is said to be the most sophisticated sustainable livestock production research center in Canada, thanks to a new facility planned by the University of Guelph, Canada, and the provincial and federal governments.

The new $15.5 million Livestock Research and Innovation Centre (LRIC) — Beef Facility will open in Elora, Ontario, in about 18 months. The project involves University of Guelph, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), the Agricultural Research Institute of Ontario (ARIO) and the Beef Farmers of Ontario (BFO).

“This new facility will expand and elevate our hub for world-class bovine research in Ontario,” says Malcolm Campbell, vice president of research for University of Guelp. “The state-of-the-art center will be equipped with the latest leading-edge technologies and powered by University of Guelph’s research excellence in agri-food. It is an exceptional example of the potency of university-government-industry collaboration.”

The center will bring together scientists, students and stakeholders to study animal production and environmental and energy issues to help drive fundamental research, help fuel innovations that enhance livestock health and welfare and strengthen Canada’s economy. It will also house leading-edge facilities for animal care and welfare, as well as for cow-calf, nutrition, genetics, forage and feedlot research. Training and education will address the needs of the beef industry in Ontario and Canada.

University of Guelph will operate the facility under its partnership with OMAFRA.

The new facility will replace beef facilities at the Elora Research Station, which was built in 1969.

“Research and innovation are key contributors to helping our agri-food industry continue to grow and thrive. That’s why our government is proud to be partnering with the University of Guelph to create this world-class research hub,” says Jeff Leal, Ontario’s minister of agriculture, food and rural affairs. “This innovative facility will help grow the beef sector and ultimately provide our farmers with the tools they need to succeed. Today’s investment will support the growth of agriculture today and the farmers of tomorrow, bringing the good things grown in Ontario to consumers around the world.”