Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA) is a producer-directed society dedicated to expanding agricultural research and demonstration activity in our region.

Our program of applied research and demonstration projects provides a link in the transfer of technology between research and the producer. Producers, industry, government and others can access reliable data on crop, livestock and soil projects that are relevant to the area and its soil climatic conditions.



About our region:

The Chinook Applied Research Association operates out of facilities located in Oyen, AB. Bordered by the provincial border to the east and the Red Deer River to the south, CARA works in an area approximately 5 million acres in size.



Special Areas 2, 3 and 4  and the Municipal District of Acadia (click for additional information)

The Chinook Applied Research Association operates out of facilities located at Oyen. Population in the area stands at approximately 5860.  Agriculture is the main industry in this 'semi-arid' portion of the province.  Although primarily a mixed-farming area, there are large tracts of grassland which support an active beef industry.  

Traditionally, cereal crop-fallow systems dominated the cultivated area, although there is a movement towards more extended rotations. Since the area was homesteaded the main crops grown have been cereals (wheat, barley and oats).  In recent years, a growing acreage is now planted to canola and field peas.  Average annual precipitation can range from 250 - 400 mm (10 – 15 inches), which tends to limit interest in many special crops.  This area is situated in the brown soil zone - including a range from very productive Acadia Valley clays to pockets of challenging saline and solonetzic soils and many types in between.  A conservative attitude towards farming has developed partially as a survival strategy and also due to the fact that many farms are now run by 2nd and 3rd generation men and women.  Less than ample rainfall and some basic soil limitations have contributed to the conservation approach and a respect for the potential of erosion.

Beef production makes up a significant part of the agricultural economy, utilizing many acres of land not well suited for crops. Production issues facing ranchers include management of prairie grasslands under drought pressures and securing adequate feed supplies for the winter.  Establishment and maintenance of reseeded perennials for forage use are also concerns of area producers.