Federal, Saskatchewan Governments Invest in Livestock, Forage Research

Jan 23, 2026

New funding has been announced for livestock and forage research in Saskatchewan, aiming to strengthen innovation, sustainability and long-term competitiveness across the sector.

The federal and provincial governments on Tuesday jointly announced $4.5 million in support of 25 new livestock and forage-related research projects through the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF). The funding is targeted at advancing applied research that delivers practical outcomes for producers.

In addition, the governments confirmed a renewed, multi-year $3.9-million partnership with two of Western Canada’s leading research institutions — the Prairie Swine Centre (PSC) and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO). Both organizations play a critical role in animal health, biosecurity, and production efficiency research.

Projects funded through the ADF are selected annually through a competitive process designed to identify research with strong potential to improve profitability and resilience on Saskatchewan farms. This year’s projects span a wide range of priorities, including the development of new hybrid bromegrass varieties with more consistent yields and improved digestibility, research into biomarkers to support earlier and more reliable testing for Johne’s disease, and initiatives focused on enhancing sustainable bison production through improved grazing strategies and prairie ecosystem preservation.

The funding model also emphasizes collaboration with industry. In addition to government support, 13 industry partners contributed an additional $1.3 million toward this year’s research projects, helping ensure studies align closely with producer needs and real-world challenges.

Source : Syngenta.ca

Video: Independent Seed, National Impact | On The Brink: Episode 9

A survey of 200 independent seed businesses reveals what Canada's seed sector actually contributes — and what it stands to lose.

On the Brink, Justin Funk, a third-generation agri-marketer, shares the findings of a national survey conducted in early 2026. The numbers reframe the conversation: independent seed companies in Canada represent upwards of $1.7 billion in dedicated seed infrastructure, approximately 3,000 full-time equivalent jobs in rural communities, and an estimated $20 million in annual community contributions. And roughly 90% of Canada's cereals, pulses, and other small pollinated crops flow through them.

The survey also asked how dependent these businesses are on public plant breeding to survive. The answer was unambiguous. For policymakers evaluating the future of publicly funded breeding programs, Funk argues the economic case for this sector and the case for public plant breeding are the same argument.

On the Brink is a cross-country video series exploring the future of plant breeding in Canada. Each episode features voices from across the industry in an open, ongoing conversation about innovation and long-term investment in Canadian agriculture.