WGRF announces $2.7 Million in funding for new crop related research

Jan 31, 2023

The Western Grains Research Foundation recently committed $2.7 Million to 22 new research projects through Saskatchewan's Agriculture Development Fund.

Board Chair, Dr. Keith Degenhardt says producers remain committed to investing in agricultural research.

"Since we began this funding partnership with ADF in 2012, WGRF has invested almost $30 million dollars to more than 220 research projects that have undoubtedly improved agricultural systems, technology and agronomic practices for western Canadian farmers.”

Projects include research into improved varietal resiliency to environmental stresses and disease for wheat, canola, canary seed, pea and barley varieties, as well as research into key agronomic challenges including surveillance and mitigation strategies for diseases such as Fusarium and club root, research into insect population dynamics, and new strategies and inputs to improve crop production.

A full listing of WGRF funded projects will be posted on the website once research contracts are in place.

Click here to see more...

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.