Funding Announced for Crop-Related Research in Saskatchewan | The Canadian News

Agricultural researchers in Saskatchewan are benefiting from an investment in crop research.

The federal and Saskatchewan governments jointly announced $9.1 million in funding Tuesday for new crop-related research in the province.

Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit said the research will support 55 projects focused on areas of importance to the province’s agricultural sector.

“Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector is uniquely well-equipped to adapt to the kind of growth we anticipate in the next decade, not only through increased capacity, but also through innovation driven by academic research with strong support from governments. industry partners,” Marit said in a statement. statement.

“Investments are only the first step; the real work is being done by researchers on a variety of topics that will generate long-term benefits for growers.”

More than $5.7 million will go to researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Some of the research at USask involves innovations ranging from plant-based edible 3D printing and packaging to the use of drones to monitor crops and soils.

“USask research continues to play a critical role in establishing Saskatchewan’s reputation as a force in the global agricultural sector,” said Baljit Singh, USask vice president of research.

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“This investment will drive discovery that leads to better food security for the world and economic prosperity for Saskatchewan.”

Canada’s Agriculture and Agri-Food Minister Marie-Claude Bibeau said the past year has been challenging for the industry.

“Canada’s agriculture sector has weathered a challenging year marked by extreme weather events with resilience and determination,” Bibeau said.

“Together with the government of Saskatchewan, our federal government is committed to investing in science and innovation through critical initiatives like the Agricultural Development Fund. Investing in science is essential to giving our farmers the tools they need to realize our vision of a sustainable agricultural sector in Canada.”

Project funding is provided through the province’s Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), which is supported by the Canadian Agricultural Association (CAP).

The CAP is a five-year, $3 billion investment by the federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada’s agriculture, agri-food and agri-products sectors.

Of that funding, $388 million is earmarked for investment in strategic initiatives in Saskatchewan’s agricultural sector at a 60/40 cost share between the federal and provincial governments.