Past Projects

Our past projects include diverse collaborations with a multitude of community partners who each contribute to Renfrew County in their own distinctive way. Past projects include:

Filter Technology Assessment for In-lake Remediation of Agricultural Phosphorus (nutrient) Loading
In January 2015, The Office of Applied Research and the Environmental Technician Diploma Program supported a student-led preliminary assessment of emerging phosphorus filter technologies in collaboration with a local company and a U.S. filter provider. Ongoing assessment of this technology is proposed for fall 2015.

Social Enterprise Solutions for the Algonquin Way Cultural Centre
In partnership with the Pikwakanagan Algonquin Way Cultural Centre (AWCC), this applied research project developed a comprehensive report outlining recommendations on how to create a social enterprise at the AWCC. This project also developed a proposal for “The Value of Our Roots” project, which looked to integrate Pikwakanagan social/cultural traditions within an enterprising framework.

Deep River Urban Tree Inventory
In partnership with Renfrew County Forests, students performed an urban tree inventory for the Town of Deep River as part of the Deep River Forest Management Plan. A team of students from the Forestry Technician, Environmental Technician, and Computer Systems Technician programs joined forces for this project.

KI Air Quality Assessment
In partnership with KI Manufacturers, students collected air quality data at KI in Pembroke to establish baseline air quality conditions at the plant. The goal of the project was to consider newer, more sustainable options in air purification/ventilation to improve the working conditions for KI factory employees. Two students in the Environmental Technician program led this project.

KI Nature & Wellness Trail Project
In partnership with KI Manufacturers, students proposed a series of nature and wellness trails and sitting areas. The goal of this project is to offer KI employees a comfortable outdoor lunch/break space while promoting a healthy, active lifestyle. The first step in the process was a collaboration between KI, Algonquin College Outdoor Adventure Naturalist students who designed a trail for future development and Fellowes High School students who built a gazebo in a scenic spot so KI employees can relax at lunch time and on their breaks.

Algonquin Way Cultural Centre – SWOT Analysis, Feasibility Study and Marketing Plan
In preparation for new legislation that was to be implemented by January 2013 that would allow for non-profits to increase their revenue stream, Business program students worked with the Pikwakanagan Algonquin Way Cultural Centre (AWCC) to develop new revenue/business strategies for 2013. In addition, in partnership with the Pikwakanagan Algonquin Way Cultural Centre, students developed a comprehensive marketing plan for expanding the AWCC products and services.