News

As World Soil Day approaches on December 5th, the spotlight shines on the critical role soil health plays in sustaining life on Earth. Soil is the cornerstone of food production, climate regulation, and ecosystem resilience. At the University of Guelph’s Ontario Agricultural College (OAC), graduate students are leading innovative research to improve soil health, shaping the future of agriculture and sustainability.

From reducing soil compaction to addressing microplastic contamination, their work underscores the value of healthy soils for ensuring food security and mitigating climate change. Here’s a look at the groundbreaking research being done by four exceptional students and its far-reaching impact.

Thomas Deng’s dreams have always been big. From Millbank, BC, the first-year BSc Agricultural Science student is the inaugural recipient of the Wilder Family Leadership Scholarship, receiving an $80,000 boost toward his career ambitions in agriculture and food – an award he calls life-changing.

OAC graduate Conor Russell has dedicated his young career to managing environmental resources and bolstering food security in support of global sustainability and humanitarian goals.

President-elect Donald Trump has announced plans to impose 25 per cent tariffs on all products from Canada and Mexico, alleging both countries have failed to curb the inflow of illegal immigrants and drugs into the United States. This policy is set to take effect once Trump assumes office in January. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is meeting with the premiers on Wednesday to discuss a response.

The OAC Liaison Team is growing!  We are looking for an enthusiastic University of Guelph student to help with our outreach and recruitment activities. 
 

Asim Biswas will explore the digital management solutions for farmers as the new Canada Research Chairs (CRC) at the University of Guelph.

OAC Alumnus Aaron Lorenz Uses Agricultural Economics to Tackle Food Security and Social Inequities. 

The OAC community mourns the passing of Graham Charles McLean, who passed away on October 16th with his loving family by his side at the age of 59 after a brief battle with cancer.

Graham was born a farmer and throughout his life he was happiest while working on the farm. As President of the Canadian Angus Association, he travelled across the country sharing his passion, learning from other Angus breeders and making so many friends along the way.

How can we preserve farmland while accommodating housing, industry, and other needs for Canada's growing population? And how can producers meet rising food demands while also protecting the environment?

The OAC community mourns the passing of Dr. Jim House, who passed away on September 10, 2024.

Jim was born on December 7th, 1966 in St. Thomas, ON and educated at the University of Guelph and the Ontario Agricultural College for both a BSc and PhD in Animal Science, before completing his post doctoral work at Memorial University of Newfoundland and finally accepting a tenured position at The University of Manitoba.