Field-Ready Research
ACARN works with researchers to make climate research usable in real‑world agricultural settings across British Columbia. Through our Field‑Ready Research approach, we help turn research findings into clear, practical resources—such as research briefs, decision‑support tools, and applied guidance—that farmers, ranchers, and decision‑makers can readily use.
These field‑ready resources are designed to support day‑to‑day decisions, strengthen climate adaptation and mitigation efforts, and build long‑term resilience across BC’s food systems.
Explore the resources below to see how see how climate research is being made field‑ready.
BC Food Web
BC Food Web is ACARN’s open-access platform for sharing climate and agriculture research in British Columbia. The site features practical research briefs, decision tools, webinars, and curated resources for producers, processors, policy‑makers, and others working in the agri‑food sector.
It’s regularly updated to ensure timely, relevant knowledge that supports sustainable and resilient food systems.
Field-Ready Research Briefs
- Research Brief: Complementary practices for more feed and better environmental outcomes on high-production dairy farms
🐮 How can we increase diary production in BC while also reducing negative environmental impacts of intensive crop production? A recent study in Agassiz, BC identified management practices like improved manure application, intercropping corn with Italian ryegrass, and summer irrigation. Together, these can be used to increase feed and improve crop nitrogen and phosphorus recovery. - Research Brief – Buzzing with benefits: Short-term on-farm grassland set-asides support beneficial insects
🌱 Can grassland set-asides support beneficial insects? A recent study in BC looked at how planting short-term grasslands on farms called grassland set-asides, impacts insect communities compared to regular cropped fields. Insects like pollinators and predators are essential to farming, but their numbers are shrinking due to habitat loss, pesticides, and climate change. - Research Brief – Complementary practices for more feed and better environmental outcomes on high-production dairy farms
Can we grow more dairy feed while protecting the environment? 🐄🌿 A recent study in BC tested four different ways of managing dairy farms called Farmlets to see if it’s possible to grow more silage corn and grass sustainably. Each Farmlet added a new Beneficial Management Practice (BMP), starting from regular farming methods and building up to include three BMPs at once.
Are you a researcher interested in developing a field‑ready research brief or tool?
Contact us to learn how ACARN can support you in mobilizing your research.
