PROVINCE RECOGNIZES CONTRIBUTIONS OF BIOTECHNOLOGY SECTOR

September 27th to October 1st, 2004 has been proclaimed as the first annual Biotech Week in Saskatchewan.

"Saskatchewan's growing biotechnology sector is a key component of our province's economic prosperity," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said. "Not only has it fostered a world-class research community, it fuels economic activity, enhances educational opportunities and makes vital contributions to our agriculture industry."

Saskatchewan has Canada's fastest growing agricultural biotechnology centre and is home to 30 per cent of the Canadian ag-biotech community. Over 700 scientists work in 30 private, public and academic facilities. Saskatchewan researchers are making great strides in areas such as biological water quality control systems, greener fuels, composite materials constructed from plants, foods grown without chemical additives and plant-based vaccines for infectious diseases.

Biotech research done in Saskatchewan has been responsible for improving plant genetics for many of the crops grown on Saskatchewan farms. Advances in plant breeding and genetics have helped producers dramatically increase the yield and quality of their crops. In addition, the development of crop traits such as herbicide-tolerant canola has allowed farmers to use reduced-tillage farming methods, creating significant environmental benefits.

"The Government of Saskatchewan is proud of its long-term commitment to biotechnology in our province," Wartman said. "We believe the infrastructure is in place for the sector to continue to grow."

A major tool for biotech research, the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron, located at Innovation Place on the University of Saskatchewan campus, will soon celebrate its grand opening. The synchrotron will cement Saskatchewan's place at the leading edge of biotechnology research for years to come.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031