AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND APPROVES 35 PROJECTS

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman today announced $4.39 million in funding to support 35 agriculture research and development projects in Saskatchewan, through Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF).

“My government’s years of experience recognize the positive contribution that research and development has played in making the province’s agriculture and agri-food industry competitive,” Wartman said.  “Research funding provided by ADF provides the resources essential for the development of new tools and knowledge that ensures Saskatchewan maintains its leadership role in the world market place.”

The current round of ADF funding provides support for research projects undertaken by organizations such as the University of Saskatchewan, the University of Regina, the Western Beef Development Centre and the Prairie Swine Centre.

Projects include the characterization of a co-product of ethanol production for use as a feed ingredient; the development of a consumer-ready, bio-degradable, fibre-based, single-use container product that utilizes Saskatchewan crop residue; and the design of micro-capsules from plant proteins for the delivery of heart healthy essential fatty acids.

“It is estimated that every dollar invested in crop genetics research by ADF generates $3.43 in producer returns,” Wartman said.  “For each dollar of increased producer returns, an estimated additional dollar accrues to other sectors of Saskatchewan’s economy, including agri-value sectors, transportation and marketing, manufacturing, financial services, and wholesale and retail trade.  Therefore, the experience of my government recognizes ADF funding as a very strategic investment.”

ADF provides funding to support institutions, companies and industry organizations to carry out research, development and value-added activities in the agriculture and agri-food sector, resulting in new knowledge, information and choices in technologies, techniques and varieties for farmers, processors and input suppliers.

All ADF 2006-07 approved projects are listed and described on Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food’s website at www.agr.gov.sk.ca under Research.

For details about ADF applications, contact the Agriculture Research Branch in Regina at 306-787-6566.

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For more information, contact:

Donna Rehirchuk
Agriculture and Food
Regina
Phone: 306-787-2359
Email: drehirchuk@agr.gov.sk.ca