Non Partisan Association

The NPA supports strategic initiatives to diversify Alberta's agricultural sector and strengthen domestic food security. By expanding aquaculture and developing advanced greenhouse operations, Alberta can reduce vulnerability to supply chain disruptions while creating new economic opportunities in rural communities.

Aquaculture Expansion

The NPA supports expanding aquaculture in Alberta as a means of diversifying the agricultural sector and enhancing domestic food security. Land-based fish farming operations represent an opportunity to leverage Alberta's resources and agricultural expertise.

Benefit	Description
Diversify Agricultural Income	Provide new revenue streams for rural communities beyond traditional farming
Enhance Food Security	Reduce dependence on imported seafood products
Create Rural Employment	Generate skilled jobs in aquaculture operations and processing
Utilize Existing Infrastructure	Leverage Alberta's water resources and agricultural expertise

Dutch-Style Greenhouse Industry

The NPA supports developing a Dutch-style greenhouse industry to increase domestic food security and reduce Alberta's reliance on imported produce. The Netherlands—a country smaller than Alberta—is the world's second-largest agricultural exporter due to its advanced greenhouse systems.

Strategic Benefits

• Year-Round Production: Climate-controlled environments enable consistent vegetable and fruit production regardless of Alberta's weather conditions
• Food Security: Reduce vulnerability to supply chain disruptions and import dependencies that became apparent during recent global events
• Resource Efficiency: Modern greenhouses use significantly less water and land than traditional field production methods
• Economic Development: Create high-value agricultural employment and export opportunities for Alberta producers
• Energy Integration: Potential to utilize waste heat from industrial processes and natural gas production, turning a byproduct into a productive input

The Dutch Model

The Netherlands demonstrates what is possible with advanced greenhouse agriculture:

• Despite limited land area, the Netherlands exports billions in agricultural products annually
• High-tech greenhouses achieve yields many times higher than open-field agriculture
• Precision climate control, LED lighting, and hydroponics enable year-round production
• Water usage can be reduced by up to 90% compared to conventional farming

Alberta has natural advantages for greenhouse development: abundant natural gas for heating, strong agricultural expertise, and growing demand for locally-produced food. Strategic investment in greenhouse infrastructure would position Alberta as a leader in controlled-environment agriculture.

Implementation Considerations

Successful development of these food security initiatives requires:

• Research and Training: Develop expertise in aquaculture and controlled-environment agriculture through post-secondary partnerships
• Infrastructure Investment: Support development of necessary facilities and supply chains
• Market Development: Connect Alberta producers with retail and food service buyers seeking local products
• Regulatory Framework: Ensure appropriate oversight while avoiding unnecessary barriers to development