The Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta (CFSEA) is pleased to announce a $193,400 donation from Anchor J Ranches, through the Anchor J Fund, to the Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA) in Oyen, supporting agricultural research, innovation, and sustainability across Southeastern Alberta.

From right to left: Landon Olsen, CARA Financial Supervisor, Dianne Westerlund, CARA Manager, and Helene Nicholson, CFSEA Regional Development Coordinator.
“We are excited to utilize this generous donation as we endeavour to bring innovative, profitable, and sustainable practices to our agricultural community,” says Dianne Westerlund, CARA Manager. “This grant will enhance our overall program and enable evaluation of new technologies such as virtual fencing at the local level within the Special Areas.”
CFSEA’s Regional Development Coordinator says the investment reflects the importance of supporting agriculture as a foundation of rural communities.
“This investment reflects a strong belief in the importance of agriculture to the long-term vitality of our region,” says Helene Nicholson, Regional Development Coordinator with the Community Foundation of Southeastern Alberta. “Through the Anchor J Fund, Anchor J Ranches is helping ensure organizations like CARA have the resources they need to explore new ideas and respond to the evolving needs of rural communities.”
Anchor J Ranches established the Anchor J Fund with CFSEA to support charitable initiatives in Southeastern Alberta, helping to strengthen the region’s agriculture and charitable sector for the long term.
“Anchor J Ranches believes in the power of community and the incredible impact that local organizations can make. This contribution allows us to support meaningful work that strengthens lives and creates lasting change. We’re proud to help enable initiatives that make our region a better place for everyone.”
About CARA
The Chinook Applied Research Association (CARA) is a producer-driven, not-for-profit organization based in Oyen, Alberta, serving the Special Areas and the MD of Acadia. Established in 1979, CARA delivers applied research, demonstration, and extension programs that support innovative, practical agricultural practices tailored to east-central Alberta’s soil and climate conditions. Learn more at chinookappliedresearch.ca/