Canadian Barley Research Coalition Invests $1.8 Million in Breeding

A significant investment in barley breeding research has been announced, with the Canadian Barley Research Coalition (CBRC) committing $1.8 million over three years to the University of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre (CDC). This funding aims to develop barley varieties that offer enhanced agronomic performance, disease resistance, and superior end-use quality.

The agreement is expected to bolster the CDC’s barley breeding program, which has a strong track record of success, as noted by Curtis Pozniak, Director of the CDC. He emphasized that the program’s achievements are rooted in its skilled personnel, advanced malt and molecular marker laboratories, and the capacity to evaluate numerous breeding lines effectively. “This CBRC funding will support these pillars moving forward,” Pozniak stated.

Collaboration to Enhance Barley Production

The CBRC is a collaborative effort involving multiple organizations, including the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley), Alberta Grains, and the Manitoba Crop Alliance. This partnership aims to ensure that Western Canadian farmers benefit from new barley varieties developed through a world-class breeding program.

According to Cody Glenn, Chair of the CBRC and SaskBarley, the funding agreement will help maintain barley’s competitiveness by improving yield and agronomic characteristics. “The CDC is uniquely positioned to deliver effective results for Western Canadian agriculture,” Glenn noted. He added that this extension of funding will enable the program to continue producing improved varieties while capitalizing on new opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Impact on Farmers and Future Prospects

Leaders from the member organizations of the CBRC have expressed strong support for this funding initiative. Scott Jesperson, Chair of Alberta Grains, highlighted the tangible benefits of the investment for farmers. “The CBRC’s investment in the CDC reflects the importance of providing farmers with access to high-performing, resilient barley varieties. This funding will deliver on-farm benefits that help barley farmers improve yields, manage disease pressure, and stay competitive in global markets,” Jesperson explained.

Furthermore, Jonothan Hodson, Chair of the Manitoba Crop Alliance, praised the CDC’s proven ability to develop 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,” Hodson stated.

The commitment to extend funding for the CDC aligns with the CBRC’s objective of facilitating long-term investments that enhance profitability and competitiveness for barley farmers in the region. This strategic move is anticipated to have lasting impacts on the agricultural landscape in Western Canada, promoting advancements in barley production that can benefit both farmers and the broader economy.