Working to improve the long-term economic viability of Canada’s horticultural sector
February 20, 2014 – Niagara Falls, Ontario – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz was at the 2014 Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention in Niagara Falls today to announce a significant investment by the Harper Government to support a new research cluster led by the Canadian Horticultural Council (CHC).
This $7 million investment, being made under the AgriInnovation Program, will support industry experts, scientists and academics conducting research focused on reducing crop input costs while improving marketable yield and margins for apple and potato growers.
CHC is also receiving over $450,000 via the AgriMarketing Program for two additional projects that will benefit the apple and potato industries. One project will help promote Canada’s high-quality apple varieties at international trade shows and increase export potential in new and emerging world markets. The second project will allow the CHC to work on issues affecting market access for potato farmers and to increase global awareness of Canadian potatoes.
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Jeff English
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gerry Ritz
613-773-1059
