Canada Invests in Grain Research to Benefit Canadian Producers

The Government of Canada is investing in grain research to meet the needs of consumers and to help its local producers increase their profitability. Parliamentary Secretary Pierre Lemieux and Member of Parliament Bev Shipley (Lambton-Kent-Middlesex), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, announced that the Canadian Field Crops Research Alliance will receive $4 million for the development of new grain and oilseed varieties with better yields and improved disease and drought resistance.

"The eastern Canadian grains and oilseeds industry is a vital part of our food industry, livestock sector and economy," said Parliamentary Secretary Lemieux. "Today's investment will drive innovation, helping farmers harvest better crops and higher profits so they can continue to compete and succeed in the global marketplace."

Research will focus on six field crops, namely, winter wheat, grain corn, soybeans, spring wheat, oats, and barley. Developing such new varieties is important in sustaining a strong grain and oil seed industry, as diseases and pests are constantly adapting.

Read more at http://www.agr.gc.ca/cb/index_e.php?s1=n&s2=2010&page=n100913.