Canadian Barley Research Coalition Funds New Breeding Program

A significant funding agreement has been established to enhance barley breeding research in Canada. The Canadian Barley Research Coalition (CBRC) has partnered with the University of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre (CDC) to advance the development of barley varieties that offer improved agronomics, disease resistance, and end-use quality. Over the next three years, the CBRC will contribute $1.8 million to support this vital initiative.

The agreement aims to bolster the CDC’s barley breeding program, which has seen success due to its skilled personnel and in-house facilities, including malt and molecular marker laboratories. Curtis Pozniak, Director of the CDC, highlighted that the funding will strengthen the existing infrastructure. “This CBRC funding will support these pillars moving forward,” Pozniak stated.

Enhancing Barley Production for Farmers

The CBRC is a collaborative effort involving the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley), Alberta Grains, and the Manitoba Crop Alliance. According to Cody Glenn, Chair of the CBRC and SaskBarley, the partnership ensures that farmers in Western Canada can look forward to new barley varieties developed through a world-class program. “This funding will keep barley competitive with improved yield and agronomic benefits,” he noted.

Leaders from the member organizations expressed their strong support for the funding initiative, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on farmers. Scott Jesperson, Chair of Alberta Grains, remarked on the practical benefits of the funding. “The CBRC’s investment in the CDC reflects the importance of providing farmers with access to high-performing, resilient barley varieties,” he said. Jesperson added that this investment will directly contribute to improving yields, managing disease pressure, and keeping barley farmers competitive in the global market.

Jonothan Hodson, Chair of the Manitoba Crop Alliance, praised the CDC’s successful track record in developing high-performance barley varieties tailored for various end-use markets. “The CBRC’s continued support for this innovative breeding program will ensure barley remains a productive and profitable crop for farmers across Western Canada,” he stated.

Focus on Long-Term Profitability

Continuity in funding for the CDC was a key priority for the CBRC, aligning with its mission to facilitate long-term investments that enhance the profitability and competitiveness of barley farmers in the region. The commitment to research and development in barley breeding signifies a progressive step toward ensuring that Western Canadian agriculture remains resilient and effective in the face of evolving agricultural challenges.

With this funding, the CBRC aims to foster advancements that will not only support current farmers but also pave the way for future generations in the barley industry. As agricultural demands continue to evolve, the partnership between the CBRC and CDC is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of barley production in Canada, ensuring the crop remains a vital contributor to the economy.