New research centre to be built in Elora, ON
By Diego Flammini, Farms.com
Most people don’t get the opportunity to move into a brand new, multi-million dollar mansion, but some dairy cows in the province of Ontario are getting that luxury.
Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced a $3 million investment by Stephen Harper’s government into a University of Guelph research station.
"This world-class facility will position Ontario at the forefront of innovation and technology development in agri-food, particularly for livestock research," said Rich Moccia, University of Guelph's associate vice-president (strategic partnerships). "It's an excellent example of the power of university, government and industry collaboration, and will provide research and learning opportunities for students and faculty alike."
The announcement was made as part of the 50th anniversary celebrations for the Dairy Farmers of Ontario (DFO).
"Ontario dairy farmers have a track record of rembracing new technology and practices. This is how evident in how far you have come in the past 50 years," said Ontario Minister of Agriculture Jeff Leal during his speech at the DFO banquet. "You are leaders in research and innovation, and the Ontario government is there to partner with you. This includes the Dairy Livestock Research and Innovation Centre, which our government is supporting through a $20 million investment."
The research station will be managed by the University of Guelph and located in Elora, Ontario. The dairy farmers see this as an affirmation of their needs to sustain a competitive market.
"The Elora Research Station will ensure a healthy long-term future for the Ontario and Canadian dairy industry,” said Bill Emmott, Board Chair for the DFO. “The contribution demonstrates this government's leadership and belief in the need for continuing research, education and training for the betterment of our industry, as well as for the next generation of dairy farmers and industry stakeholders.”
The Elora station will use the investment to focus on initiatives like reproduction, nutrition, and value-added milk components.
The federal government’s injection of funds is in addition to $20 million from the Ontario government, $1 million from DFO, and another million from other dairy industry professionals.
"Our Government is proud to join with the province and industry to get this world-class facility off the ground,” said Minister Ritz in a release. “This project will help ensure that Ontario's dairy industry continues to be a major contributor to the economic growth of Canada.”
In 2013, Ontario sold more than 900 million litres of milk.