The federal government on Tuesday announced almost $2 million in funding to improve varieties for the Canadian oat industry.
The money for the Prairie Oat Growers Association will go toward developing new oat cultivars suited for production in western Canada. The new cultivars will be developed to have end-use quality identified by the industry, and will carry genetic resistance to major diseases, pests and adverse environmental and changing climatic conditions, according to a federal release.
The project is being funded through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriScience Program, which aims to advance the growth and profitability of the sector by accelerating innovation through support for pre-commercial science activities and cutting-edge research.
“In order to ensure oats remain a viable and competitive option for our producers in Western Canada (and continues to support a significant value-added industry), continued investment in varietal improvements is essential,” said Jenneth Johanson, President, Prairie Oat Growers Association.
Canada produces about 3 million tonnes of oats each year, and is the largest exporter of oats in the world. Western Canada represents nearly 90% of Canada’s oat production.
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