Federal funding aims to enhance the canola industry's sustainability and economic impact.
By Jean-Paul McDonald
Farms.com
Photo Credit: Pexels Jean van der Meulen
The Canola Council of Canada (CCC) has welcomed the federal government's substantial investment of over $9 million in canola research, a move set to revolutionize the sustainability and economic contribution of Canada's canola industry.
Curtis Rempel, CCC's vice president of crop production and innovation, emphasized the pivotal role of innovation in canola's success at a news conference announcing the new Canola AgriScience Cluster funding under the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
This federal investment, combined with contributions from provincial canola grower associations and the industry, amasses to more than $17 million over five years. A total of 17 collaborative projects with public research institutions across Canada are planned under this funding partnership.
Canola has long been a leader in innovation, positively impacting both the environment and the Canadian economy. It remains the top source of farm crop revenue, generating $29.9 billion annually for Canada.
Charles Fossay, chair of Manitoba Canola Grower's research committee, shared the commitment of Alberta Canola, SaskCanola, and Manitoba Canola Growers to innovation. Nearly $3.5 million will be invested by these organizations over five years in the Canola AgriScience Cluster. This research aims to address production challenges, enhance yields, and bolster canola's role as a climate solutions provider.
The 17 projects encompass genetics, crop production, processing, and export, focusing on enhancing nutrient management practices, expanding understanding of canola's role in mitigating climate change, developing resistance against pathogens and pests, and optimizing economic advantages for growers.
The Canola Council’s agronomy team plans to convert research results into practical recommendations for growers, industry, and academia. They will utilize innovative strategies to disseminate management practices, drawing on past Canola AgriScience Cluster findings to evaluate economic impacts.
Chris Davison, CCC president and CEO, highlighted the dynamic opportunities for the canola industry in food, feed, and fuels. Born out of innovation, the investment in research is poised to ensure a successful and sustainable future for Canadian canola.