BIOTECH WEEK PROCLAIMED IN SASKATCHEWAN

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman today proclaimed the week of Sept. 26th-30th as Biotech Week in Saskatchewan.

"Saskatchewan is recognized as an international leader in the agricultural biotechnology sector," Wartman said. "Our expanding biotechnology sector plays an important role in our province's economic prosperity. Biotechnology has helped to build an outstanding research community in Saskatchewan, and generates economic activity, creates educational opportunities and contributes to our agriculture industry."

Saskatchewan is home to more than 30 biotechnology firms whose work is assisted by Canada's only Synchrotron, which opened in Saskatoon last year. More than 700 Saskatchewan researchers are working 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," Wartman said. "Advances in plant breeding and genetics have helped producers increase the yield and quality of their crops. As well, the development of crop traits such as herbicide-tolerant canola has allowed farmers to use reduced-tillage farming methods, which has led to significant environmental benefits."

Various activities related to biotechnology will be held in Saskatoon during Biotech Week. A DNA workshop for teachers will be conducted from 4:30-6:00 p.m. on Sept. 28th at SIAST-Kelsey Campus in Saskatoon. A display called Celebrate Saskatoon – Science City will open during the week at the Circle Park Mall and remain in place for a month.

National Biotech Week is also observed, across Canada, from Sept 26th -30th. For national events, see www.biotech.ca/imagenenation/.

For more information about Biotech Week in Saskatchewan, see Ag-West Bio's website at www.agwest.sk.ca/.

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For More Information, Contact:

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