Agriculture research summaries

Short summaries of agricultural studies tailored to B.C. farmers and producers.

Agricultural survey research

These research summaries provide information from observational surveys. They provide an accurate understanding of current practices and the farming context, such as changes in pest populations over time.

On-farm demonstration research and trials

This project aims to promote and support the adoption of Best Management Practices (BMPs) among growers in the Lower Mainland and Pemberton through on-farm demonstration research (OFDR). OFDR plays a crucial role in agricultural extension by bridging the gap between academic research and real-world farming. It allows growers to test proven BMPs under practical conditions, providing a low-risk way to observe results firsthand. 
 
By engaging producers in topic selection, trial design, and data collection, the project builds their capacity to carry out scientifically guided trials independently. Farmer participants are directly involved in setting up the trials in the field with support from the research contractor. Over time, farmers are empowered to replicate trials and share insights through peer-to-peer networks—a proven and effective method of knowledge dissemination in agriculture.  

• Video (3:08 min) Overview and benefits
• Video (6:22 min) Interseeding cover crops in broccoli

A research brief and research manual has been developed for each OFDR topic. 

Research  brief - a summary of the OFDR experiment for the topic in question, including background, methodology, and results

Research manual - detailed methodology for replicating the trial on your own farm, including materials lists, approximate costs, and data sheets

Research from universities and research centres

These research summaries share information and results from scientific studies done by researchers at universities and research centers testing agricultural practices.