If you’re looking for an oat that delivers a solid yield bump without sacrificing standability, you’ll want to keep an eye on OT3125. This experimental line has outperformed industry staples like AC Morgan and CS Camden by an average of 7% over two years.
It was success stories like these that were the highlight of last week’s Prairie Grain Development Committee (PGDC) meeting, held in Winnipeg Feb. 24-27.
“It’s got strong lodging resistance, stays upright, and maintains excellent grain quality—even in last year’s dry conditions,” says Aaron Beattie, barley and oat breeder at the University of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre (CDC).
Beta-glucan levels are right where they need to be, making it a great fit for food markets. Beattie compares it to previous game-changers like CDC Arborg. “It’s been a while since we’ve seen this level of improvement in oats,” he says.
If this trend holds, OT3125 could be a high-performing option for growers looking to maximize returns.
Black Barley: A Specialty Market Opportunity
Over in the barley world, a new black barley variety, HB23150, is turning heads. Bred at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) Research and Development Centre in Brandon, Man., this hulless variety is packed with antioxidants and could tap into premium health-conscious markets.
“People are calling it ‘barley caviar,’” says Ana Badea, head of AAFC’s barley breeding program in Brandon.
Unlike feed and malt barleys, black barley’s dark outer bran is rich in anthocyanins—compounds linked to health benefits. With growing demand for specialty grains, this could be an opportunity for farmers looking to diversify.
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