Research on Manitoba Wheat Crop could benefit all prairie farmers

Farmers in Manitoba are being called upon to aid critical research aimed at improving wheat production amid changing climate conditions. 

The University of Manitoba's "Mani Wheat Project," led by Dr. Cristina Rosell’s food science group, is gathering wheat samples from farmers to study the effects of pre-harvest sprouting, a significant issue caused by excessive rain and humidity before harvest.

Jenny Bouchard, the research manager, explains that pre-harvest sprouting degrades starch and protein in wheat, leading to lower quality grain and economic losses for farmers. The team hopes to identify specific wheat varieties, particularly Canadian Western Red Spring (CWRS), that are more resistant to sprouting and better suited to Manitoba’s shifting environmental conditions.

Bouchard emphasizes the importance of the study in bolstering Manitoba’s agricultural economy and improving food security across Canada. 

"With climate change, it's vital we identify varieties that can withstand less-than-ideal growing conditions," she says.

The research team is searching for farmers willing to donate samples of all varieties of Canadian Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat from 2023 and 2024 crop years. CWRS is the most widely grown class of hard wheat in Western Canada and is commonly regarded for its superior milling and baking quality.

Farmers interested in participating will be sent prepaid shipping envelopes and instructions to submit their samples. The results of the research will be shared with participants, offering valuable insights into wheat varieties that could help optimize yields and quality in future growing seasons. Bouchard adds research on crop optimization is always happening across the prairies and adds they are always trying to find ways to aid the industry.

Farmers can reach out to maniwheat@umanitoba.ca to get involved in this important research, which aims to provide long-term benefits to the province’s wheat production and the global wheat export market.