BASF investing in expansion of canola breeding centre

Mar 19, 2026

SASKATOON — BASF announced Tuesday morning an investment to expand its Canola Breeding Centre of Innovation in Saskatoon.

The $27 million investment, BASF says, will "strengthen its position as a global leader in canola advancement" and "contributes to economic growth and competitiveness for Saskatchewan".

Work includes adding advanced infrastructure "including precision controlled environment growth systems and a research-grade glasshouse, increasing breeding capacity and shortening innovation cycles."

The hope with this investment is to "accelerate the development of new InVigor hybrid canola varieties that can better withstand changing environmental pressures while helping farmers meet growing global demand."

“Canola is a strategic crop for our Agricultural Solutions business, playing a crucial role for Canadian farmers and supporting food production worldwide,” said Livio Tedeschi, President of BASF Agricultural Solutions in a news release. “This investment underscores our commitment to advancing our entire portfolio of canola. As the global leader in canola production and innovation, BASF is proud to invest in its future innovation capabilities.”

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Video: California Farm Bureau 2025 Farm Dog of the Year Contest Winner - Willy - CAFB 107th Annual Meeting

Meet Willy: California Farm Bureau’s 2025 Farm Dog of the Year!

We’re excited to introduce Willy, a miniature long-haired dachshund with a big heart and even bigger courage, and the Grand Prize winner of this year’s Farm Dog of the Year Contest!

Willy may be small, but he’s become an indispensable partner on owner Marshal Hagedorn’s forestry and cattle operations in Shasta, Tehama, and Siskiyou counties. Adopted in 2023, he quickly found his place on the ranch, helping manage critters, tagging along for long days in the woods, and offering unwavering companionship during demanding logging work.

Willy has even taken naturally to moving cattle, surprising calves (and more than a few full-grown cows!) with his burst of energy from the tall grass. As Marshal put it: “He goes with me everywhere every single day.”

Congratulations to Willy and his family, a perfect example of how every good farm dog, no matter the size, helps keep California agriculture running strong.