Harper Government Invests in Research for Canaryseed

Jan 07, 2013

The Harper Government is investing to help canaryseed producers maximize their yields. Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz announced today an investment for the Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan (CDCS) as members met during Crop Production Week.

"Saskatchewan is the world's leading producer and exporter of canaryseed, and our government is committed to supporting new and innovative ways to keep this sector strong and sustainable," said Minister Ritz. "This investment is another example of how we are helping producers stay competitive in today's markets."

Canaryseed is used almost exclusively in feed mixtures for caged and wild birds. The producer-funded CDCS was formed in 2006 to coordinate research and market use expansion for the canaryseed industry. This investment of $54,000 will provide producers with more accurate recommendations to help them maximize their yields. Increased yields will also lead to greater exports and sales, helping to boost the bottom line of farmers.

"Previous research has shown a big benefit for many canaryseed crops from the application of chloride fertilizer as potassium chloride (potash)," said Kevin Hursh, CDCS executive director. "This federal support is critical to helping fine-tune fertilizer recommendations based on how much chloride is present in a field as measured by a soil test."

This project is funded under the Agricultural Innovation Program (AIP), a $50-million initiative announced as part of Canada's Economic Action Plan 2011. The AIP is part of the Government's commitment to help Canadian producers benefit from cutting-edge science and technology. The AIP boosts the development and commercialization of innovative new products, technologies, and processes for the agricultural sector.

In September, federal, provincial, and territorial ministers of agriculture reached agreement on the five-year Growing Forward 2 policy framework. The new agreement will continue to drive innovation and long-term economic growth in Canada. In addition to a generous suite of business risk management programs, governments have agreed to invest more than $3 billion over five years in innovation, competitiveness, and market development.

Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada

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