Cariboo – Applied Adaptation Research Strategic Plan [cb12]
Region | Cariboo |
Status | completed in 2019 |
Project Lead | Kersley Farmers’ Institute |
Funding Partners | Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, BC Ministry of Agriculture, Beef Cattle Industry Development Fund |
Other Partners | Cariboo Agricultural Research Alliance (CARA), BC Agriculture and Climate Adaptation Research Network (BC-ACARN), Young Agrarians |
This project developed a strategic plan to guide applied adaptation research for the agriculture sector in the Cariboo.
Climate change is resulting in more variability and extremes in conditions across the seasons, which is increasing the complexity of managing agricultural operations. Producers in the Cariboo require robust local research to support profitability and resilience in their unique production environment.
This strategic plan identifies an approach for the Cariboo Agricultural Research Alliance (CARA) (formally launched in 2018 through an earlier CAI project) to use limited research resources for broad and strategic benefit. The plan was informed by background research, a ranking matrix and consultation with stakeholders, including two thematic focus groups to develop the two top research priorities.
While developing the strategic plan, this project:
- identified local sector research priorities using a matrix criteria that will enable the process to be replicated in the future
- formed a scientific advisory committee to inform and support CARA’s research objectives
- engaged with groups under-represented to date in CARA (new entrants, southern Cariboo producers and First Nations) and provided recommendations for further future engagement
- developed collaborative research project proposals for the top two research priorities