October 16, 2014 - Winnipeg, Manitoba - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Member of Parliament Joyce Bateman (Winnipeg South Centre), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, today announced an investment of $3 million to the Flax Council of Canada to improve the genetic performance and agronomics of flax, an important oilseed crop for Canadian producers and processors.
This investment will support the continued research and development of new flax varieties through the use of the Rapid Development Trait System, a regulated non-genetically modified conversion system which can produce new traits in flax. In addition, agronomic best management practices will be developed to help farmers achieve higher yields of flax.
Under this project, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada researchers will collaborate with industry on a number of activities to help the sector. These activities will include research into disease management, seed quality and genetic resistance to heat and drought, contributing to increased competitiveness for flax producers.
Jeff English
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gerry Ritz
613-773-1059
Media Relations
Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Ottawa, Ontario
613-773-7972
1-866-345-7972
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