For Whitney and Bryan Corns, farming is more than just a business — it’s a family legacy.
As uncle and niece, Whitney and Bryan Corns represent two of the four generations that have worked their land in southern Alberta. Today, that legacy includes a new triticale variety they’re excited to share with fellow producers: T317.
The Corns family first began experimenting with triticale in the early 1990s, searching for reliable feed for their cattle. “I think we got into triticale in probably the very early ’90s, looking for feed products for our ranching operation,” Bryan says. “A friend involved with Progressive Seeds in Lacombe suggested we give it a try in our area east of Taber — and that’s where it started.”
Over the decades, the family has grown both spring and winter triticale, building strong ties with breeders and watching the crop’s potential expand. “It feels like we were growing triticale before it became popular,” Wendy says. “Now it’s really gaining attention, especially as new varieties are developed for specific needs like dryland or irrigated production.”
That’s where T317 comes in. Designed for dryland production, the variety features a slightly taller plant, a larger head, reduced awns to prevent issues with cattle, and broader leaves for increased feed value.
“With escalating land values, more cattle are being put on marginal ground,” Bryan says. “The biggest concern for producers is tonnage — being able to put up enough feed on minimal moisture and lower fertility. T317 delivers both tonnage and improved feed quality compared to older varieties.”
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