A total of $6 million in funding was announced today by Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau and Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister David Marit for livestock and forage research activities.

“The work of Canadian scientists is helping to make our agricultural sector the leader it is, both in terms of productivity and sustainable development. Our government will continue to invest in this vital research to support the success of our producers.

- The Honourable Marie-Claude Bibeau, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food 

“Scientific research is the engine that drives innovation and competitiveness, and helps keep Saskatchewan’s world-class agriculture producers doing what they do best. These investments enable researchers and institutions to do the work that helps position our producers to meet the global market needs of tomorrow. Research drives sustainability in the livestock sector.”

- David Marit, Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister

“Investment in research is a cornerstone for the growth of our industry. Saskatchewan beef producers value projects that focus on priorities such as increasing the nutritional value of forage or better managing their herd’s health, which leads to more profitability on their operations. We are pleased to see both the federal and provincial governments partnering with us and ensuring this essential research is adequately funded.”

- Arnold Balicki, Chair of the Saskatchewan Cattlemen’s Association

“A sustainable forage seed production system helps Canadian livestock producers have a consistent, reliable and affordable supply of high-quality feed, and Saskatchewan’s production of red clover seed used for sowing supports Canada’s position as the number two exporter of this seed to the European Union and the number one exporter to the United States. Determining economic thresholds for timely control of the lesser clover leaf weevil—the first research done on this pest—is a crucial project. Our growers are grateful to the ADF for this support to help ensure sustainable red clover seed production in Saskatchewan and its use for planting as a good component in livestock grazing mixtures, or as a cover crop to improve soil health and fix nitrogen.”

- Jo-Anne Relf-Eckstein, Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission

• The ADF is supported through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP), a 5-year, $3 billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen and grow Canada's agriculture, agri-food and agri-products sectors. 

• This includes a $2-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60% federally and 40% provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories, including a $388-million investment in strategic initiatives for Saskatchewan agriculture. The CAP ends on March 31, 2023.

Associated links

• Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
• Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture)
• Agriculture Development Fund

Marianne Dandurand
Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
marianne.dandurand@agr.gc.ca
343-541-9229

Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
613-773-7972
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Jamie Shanks
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5155
jamie.shanks2@gov.sk.ca