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RDAR Injects Over $600,000 Into Expanding Silage Crop Regional Variety Trials

Alberta farmers and ranchers will soon have access to expanded silage crop research, thanks to a $650,000 investment from Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR). The funding, which includes $610,000 from the federal and provincial governments through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership and an additional $40,000 from Alberta Beef Producers (ABP), will extend Silage Crop Regional Variety Trials (RVTs) across the province for the next three years.

The trials, led by Alberta Seed Processors, aim to provide producers with critical data on the performance of silage and green feed crops. Following successful trials in 2023 and 2024, the initiative will expand to include additional test sites and new crops such as fall rye and corn. Researchers will also explore ways to present crop yield and nutrient stability data, helping farmers assess production risks associated with specific varieties.

Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay said the initiative will help Alberta producers make more informed decisions.

“Every day, producers make tough choices to protect their businesses, land, and livestock. We’re committed to ensuring Alberta’s farmers and ranchers have the information they need to expand their operations and boost their bottom line,” MacAulay said.

Alberta’s Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, RJ Sigurdson, emphasized the importance of silage as a feed source.

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Synthetic Microbiota Explained - Dr. Alexandre Thibodeau

Video: Synthetic Microbiota Explained - Dr. Alexandre Thibodeau


In this episode of The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, Dr. Alexandre Thibodeau, from the University of Montreal, explains how synthetic microbiota and bioreactor systems can help researchers study gut microorganisms, evaluate feed additives, investigate Salmonella control strategies, and develop alternatives to animal trials. Listen now on all major platforms!

"Bioreactor models can screen microbiota solutions before animal trials, lowering costs and reducing the number of pigs needed."

Meet the guest: Dr. Alexandre Thibodeau / alexandre-thibodeau-2493a540 is an Associate Professor at the University of Montreal, in Canada, with a PhD in Veterinary Science and Microbiology. His work focuses on swine gut health, food safety, microbiota research, pathogen control, and alternative research models that support animal production and welfare. His research explores innovative strategies to better understand interactions among microorganisms and to improve livestock health outcomes. Learn more from Dr. Alexandre Thibodeau on The Swine it Podcast Show Canada, available on all major platforms.