NEW PROGRAM TO ENHANCE AGRICULTURE RESEARCH

The Government of Saskatchewan today unveiled a new $16.5-million, five-year Strategic Research Program (SRP) Agreement at the University of Saskatchewan.

The funding will be directed toward creating research teams whose work will enhance and add value to Saskatchewan's agriculture and food industry.

"Following consultation with industry and research institutions, the Government of Saskatchewan determined there was a need to change the existing SRP to adjust to the new and evolving needs of the agriculture and food industry in the province," Office of Energy Conservation Minister Peter Prebble said on behalf of Deputy Premier and Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Minister Clay Serby.

The SRP was introduced in 1986 to help fund agriculture and food research at the University of Saskatchewan. Additional research funding is provided through Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's Agriculture Development Fund (ADF).

Serby said the new SRP agreement will give researchers the opportunity for longer term planning and the ability to compete for funding from all available sources. The funding will create up to 34 positions or 17 research teams, each consisting of a scientist and a technician. The funding will also cover indirect costs, including administration.

U of S Vice-President of Research Dr. Steven Franklin said the University worked in cooperation with the government to revise the SRP Agreement.

"This agreement extends a long-standing partnership with the department, enabling us to continue to attract top people and provide new research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students," Franklin said. "We are also pleased that the Saskatchewan government has recognized the critical need to cover the indirect costs of doing research."

The research teams will be staffed over the next few months and will focus on livestock, crops, soils and the environment, and value added.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

Dr. Abdul Jalil Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-5960

Kathryn Warden University of Saskatchewan Saskatoon Phone: (306)966-2506