Wednesday, May 15, 2024

Feds provide $5.7 million for plant breeding


The federal government is providing $5.7 million for research on soybeans, corn and oats, most of it to breed improved varieties.

Industry will be adding its support to bring the total to $10.5 million over the next five years.

Federal MP Lloyd Longfield made the announcement at Woodrill Farms Ltd. which is in his riding at Guelph.

“The research is going to include developing new varieties that meet the quality demands of processors and consumers and new short-season soybean varieties,” Longfield said.

 “Activities will also explore how diverse crop rotations can play a central role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and how better genetics, land management and fertilizer use can improve nitrogen use efficiency to protect the environment.”

 

Josh Cowan, vice-president of the Canadian Field Crop Research Alliance, said five research initiatives have already been vetted, approved and collaborated with institutions across Canada and several stakeholders from seed to processing.