January 20, 2015 – For Immediate Release
BRANDON, Man. — The governments of Canada and Manitoba are investing more than $443,000 in research to support the growth and sustainability of Manitoba’s soybean sector, Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn and Member of Parliament Larry Maguire, on behalf of Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, announced today at Ag Days.
“Soybeans are important to Manitoba’s farmers and our agri-processing industry,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “A strategic investment in research will help ensure this crop continues to create good returns for farmers and economic opportunities throughout the province.”
In total, seven soybean research projects will be funded through the Manitoba Pulse Growers Association and other industry partners, including the Western Grains Research Foundation, focused on:
- how phosphorus fertilizer application, soil temperature and crop residue affect soybean emergence;
- developing effective control methods for pests like soybean cyst nematode and root rot; and
- effective organic production strategies.
“Canada’s soybeans are highly regarded around the world for their high quality and health benefits,” said MP Maguire. “Our government is proud to invest in new research to generate higher yields of soybeans, creating more opportunities for farmers and processors to prosper.”
Last year, nearly 1.3 million acres of soybeans were grown in Manitoba, making it the third most commonly grown crop after canola and wheat. The annual farm gate value of this crop is estimated at more than $435 million. Manitoba soybeans are crushed for oil and used as a protein source in livestock feed. Most soybeans are exported, with about 60 per cent sold into the United States.
“Soybeans continue to expand in our province,” said Kyle Friesen, president of the Manitoba Pulse Growers Association. “Investing in these soybean research projects will ensure our growers have scientific information to improve their crop management decisions.”
Industry is contributing another $796,000 to these projects.
These projects are among 32 funded through Growing Innovation – Agri-Food Research and Development Initiative (GI-ARDI) under Growing Forward 2. In total, more than $3.2 million will be invested in industry-led research for the crops, livestock, agri-environment and food sectors. For more information about GI-ARDI, visit www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture under Growing Forward 2.
The federal and provincial governments are investing $176 million in Manitoba under Growing Forward 2, a five-year, federal-provincial-territorial policy framework to advance the agriculture industry, helping producers and processors become more innovative and competitive in world markets.