Member of Parliament for Lethbridge Jim Hillyer announced on March 17 an investment of C$1 million to the Alberta Wheat Commission to develop an innovative, low-cost way to increase winter wheat production in western Canada.
This project will evaluate new varieties that offer greater yield, quality and consistency, and develop best management practices that promote healthier winter wheat, enabling producers to diversify their operations. It will also provide producers with information and tools about winter wheat production which will help them address agronomic challenges.
"Winter wheat has become one of the most profitable field crops in western Canada,” said Hillyer. “This project will enable producers to increase their winter wheat acreage, helping them to diversify their businesses and grow their revenues."
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers will collaborate with industry on a number of activities, including research into new controls to address weed problems, new cultivars, and enhanced crop production through better residue management.
Home to a third of Canada's wheat crop, Alberta wheat brings in C$2.26 billion to the farm gate and another C$2.3 billion in exports.