HOMEWOOD, MANITOBA -- (Marketwired) -- 06/06/15 -- Western Economic Diversification Canada
Corn and soybean producers will benefit from a $1.2 million investment announced today by the Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State for Social Development and Member of Parliament for Portage-Lisgar, on behalf of the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification.
Through this project, agricultural trial research will be undertaken to increase production in Western Canada and benefit producers seeking to access growing domestic and global market opportunities. WD's investment will support the purchase of equipment to bridge the gap between current equipment capacity and the agronomy research needs identified by both the industry and producers.
The Manitoba Corn Growers Association is collaborating with the Manitoba Pulse Growers Association, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, and the University of Manitoba to support western Canadian producers.
Quick Facts
-- The demand for corn and soybeans is rapidly expanding to meet feed,
ethanol, distillery, crushing and export markets. According to industry
projections, corn and soybean production in Western Canada could exceed
14 million acres over the next 10 years.
-- Under the project, 21 graduate and undergraduate students will benefit
from skills development and training and become highly qualified
personnel (HQP) in the agriculture sector. In addition, 14 research
coordinators/technicians will receive advanced skills development
opportunities.
Quotes
"Our Government is pleased to support this exciting project that will result in increased production and expand access for producers in growing domestic and global markets. This is an excellent example of how industry, academia and government can work together to strengthen the economy."
- The Honourable Candice Bergen, Minister of State for Social Development
"The Manitoba Corn Growers Association is pleased to be the recipient of $1.2 million in research funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada. This project benefits not only farmers and researchers, but also the Western Canadian economy. This equipment will allow us to carryout research in various eco regions throughout the province so that row crop research can be well replicated and provide results that are relevant to producers in their specific growing area.
- Myron Krahn, President, Manitoba Corn Growers Association (MCGA)
"This announcement is tremendous for Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers (MPSG) members and all producers. These funds will allow researchers in Manitoba to continue supporting our crops and cropping systems by performing advanced research with precision and accuracy using equipment that mimics what producers are actually using on their farms. For example, the mid-row banding unit will allow Dr. Yvonne Lawley to accurately measure and enhance the 4R fertilizer application system thereby helping to improve the health of our environment. The joint collaborative efforts of MCGA and MPSG was key to success of this application."
- Francois Labelle, Executive Director, Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers
Additional Links
- Manitoba Corn Growers Association: www.manitobacorn.ca
- Manitoba Pulse and Soybean Growers Association: www.manitobapulse.ca
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IF THERE IS A DISCREPANCY BETWEEN ANY PRINTED VERSION AND THE ELECTRONIC VERSION OF THIS NEWS RELEASE, THE ELECTRONIC VERSION WILL PREVAIL.
Contacts:
Mary Franceschet
A/Director Policy, Planning and External Relations
Western Economic Diversification Canada
Winnipeg, Manitoba
204-294-2260
mary.franceschet@wd-deo.gc.ca
Karin Rose
Research Project Co-ordinator
Manitoba Corn Growers Association
Carman, Manitoba
204-745-6661
karin@manitobacorn.ca
WD Toll-Free Number: 1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
Website: WD is online at www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
