AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND ACCEPTING LETTERS OF INTENT

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food is currently accepting letters of intent for research funding under the Agriculture Development Fund.

The fund will consider proposals related to any aspect of agricultural production, but specific emphasis is being placed on research which will lead to:

• Improved food quality and safety;
• New and innovative food and other bioproducts and bioprocessing technologies;
• Optimized livestock feeding systems;
• Increased competitiveness in livestock production;
• Decreased agricultural production risks;
• New crop varieties to meet market demands and consumer preferences; and
• Integrated and comprehensive farming systems and practices that enhance/maintain the agro-ecosystem’s capacity and the integrity of the provincial land/soil resource.

“Research is crucial to enhancing Saskatchewan and Canada’s positions in the forefront of both agricultural science and agricultural production,” Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said.  “The products and technology that have been derived from previous research projects are helping to develop and diversify Saskatchewan’s agricultural industry today.  Investment in research today will lead to tangible benefits tomorrow for both producers and consumers.”

Letters of intent will be accepted until April 15, 2007.  Successful applicants will then be asked to submit a full proposal before September 1, 2007.

Letter of Intent forms are available online at www.arb.gov.sk.ca or through the links on the Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food website at www.agr.gov.sk.ca.

Applicants are asked to follow the online instructions.  If problems or questions arise, call (306) 787-5929 or email ARBonline@agr.gov.sk.ca.

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For more information, contact:

Dr. Abdul Jalil
Agriculture and Food
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5960