Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan Invest $9.7 Million in Crop Research

Today, Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture David Marit announced $9.7 million to support crop research in Saskatchewan.

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. 

“Investing in agricultural research is an investment in the future,” MacDonald said. “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.”

"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," Marit said. "Investments in agriculture research remain key to driving economic growth."

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.

The Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan work closely with industry partners on ADF projects to leverage funding to support research that aligns with industry priorities. This year, projects are supported by an additional $3.2 million from 13 industry partners, including: