AGRICULTURE DEVELOPMENT FUND APPROVES 25 PROJECTS

Twenty-five agriculture research and development projects in Saskatchewan have received support of $2.87 million from the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF).

Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said the research projects will assist with the progress and diversification of many areas of Saskatchewan's agriculture and agri-food industry.

"Research is the basis by which long-term changes can take place that could transform the agriculture industry in our province," Wartman said. "Research funding provided by ADF provides resources for the development of new tools and knowledge for Saskatchewan to maintain its leadership role and competitive edge in the world marketplace.

"It is estimated that, for every dollar invested in research and development, the industry sees a return of up to $40 – a strategic investment indeed."

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

This round of ADF funding will provide support for research projects undertaken by organizations such as the University of Saskatchewan, the National Research Council Plant Biotechnology Institute, and the Saskatchewan Beekeepers Association.

Projects include the disease screening of barley breeding selections, the development of superior lines of spice crops for Saskatchewan, and the development of a honey bee breeding program.

All 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