Vancouver: Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture David Marit have announced $9.7 million to support crop research in Saskatchewan.
“Investing in agricultural research is an investment in the future. It helps address current and emerging challenges while creating new opportunities for farmers. We will continue to support agricultural research to ensure producers have the tools, knowledge, and solutions they need to succeed now and in years to come.” said Heath MacDonald, federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
This investment includes $7.2 million to support 39 new crop research projects through the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) and $2.5 million through the Strategic Research Initiative (SRI) to study the long-term management of herbicide-resistant kochia and wild oats.
“Saskatchewan’s position as a global leader in crop exports is built on decades of investment in research and the dedication of scientists in crop development. Investments in agriculture research remain key to driving economic growth.”said David Marit, Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture.
ADF projects are selected through an annual competitive process to identify research with the potential to help Saskatchewan’s farmers remain innovative, profitable and competitive. This year’s crop projects include a range of topics, including: evaluating the performance of subsurface drip irrigation; identifying new ways to build resistance to wheat stem sawfly; enhancing tolerance to drought and phosphorus deficiency in lentil crops; managing riceworm infestations in northern Saskatchewan wild rice production; and validating bale wrapping material made from flax straw and oat hulls.
“Producers are constantly growing, changing and innovating farming operations to capture growing potential and maximize on-farm efficiencies. Today’s ADF and SRI funding announcement signals to us as producers that we have strong partners with government to tackle agriculture challenges and continue to unlock potential.”said Jake Leguee, outgoing board chair, SaskWheat.
The ADF and SRI are supported through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3.5 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of Canada’s agriculture, agri-food, and agri-based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities, and a $2.5 billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories.