Based on coverage from Mirage News, The Western Producer, Prince Albert Daily Herald, CJWW Radio, and SaskToday.
$9.7 Million Boost for Saskatchewan Crop Research
Saskatchewan's agricultural sector is set to benefit from a significant funding injection, with federal and provincial governments announcing a $9.7 million investment in crop research. The funding, revealed by Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Heath MacDonald and Saskatchewan Minister of Agriculture David Marit, aims to bolster innovation and competitiveness among the province's farmers.
Agriculture Development Fund Supports 39 Projects
The Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) will receive $7.2 million of the total investment, supporting 39 new research projects. These projects were selected through a competitive process designed to identify initiatives with the potential to enhance the profitability and sustainability of Saskatchewan's agricultural sector. Among the projects are efforts to evaluate subsurface drip irrigation, develop resistance to wheat stem sawfly, and manage riceworm infestations in northern Saskatchewan's wild rice production. The University of Saskatchewan is a major beneficiary, with over $4.5 million allocated to 24 projects within the institution.
Strategic Research Initiative Tackles Herbicide Resistance
A further $2.5 million is earmarked for the Strategic Research Initiative (SRI), which focuses on the long-term management of herbicide-resistant weeds such as kochia and wild oats. Led by Dr. Shaun Sharpe at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, this project involves a multidisciplinary team from several universities and the National Research Council. The initiative represents a collaborative effort to develop sustainable solutions for producers facing these persistent agricultural challenges.
Industry Partners Contribute Additional Funding
In addition to government funding, 13 industry partners are contributing $3.2 million to support these research efforts. These partners include organizations from across the Prairie provinces, such as the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, Alberta Grains, and Manitoba Crop Alliance. Their involvement underscores the collaborative nature of the research and highlights the shared interest in advancing agricultural practices in the region.
Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership Framework
The funding is part of the broader Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership, a five-year, $3.5 billion initiative by federal, provincial, and territorial governments. This partnership aims to strengthen the competitiveness and resilience of Canada's agriculture sector, with a $1 billion federal program and a $2.5 billion cost-shared commitment between federal and provincial governments. The investment reflects ongoing efforts to address both current and emerging challenges in agriculture while creating new opportunities for Canadian farmers.
The announcement comes at a time when Saskatchewan's agricultural sector is looking to expand its global reach, with Premier Scott Moe accompanying Prime Minister Mark Carney on a trip to Beijing to discuss easing tariffs on Canadian canola. As Saskatchewan continues to navigate international trade dynamics, investments in research and innovation remain crucial for maintaining the province's agricultural competitiveness.
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