An influx of federal cash will allow the Eastern Canada Oilseed Development Alliance (ECODA) to develop new technology and varieties for the eastern oilseed sector, the federal government announced today.
Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay pledged up to $4.3 million over five years, which will be matched with $4.0 million from industry partners and the provincial agricultural departments of PEI, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick.
According to an Oct. 4 news release, the funding will allow ECODA to develop new agronomic technologies, improved cropping systems and adaptive varieties while aiming to the industry’s long-term sustainability. Projects will focus on crops like soybeans, canola, camelina, mustard and pulses.
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Eastern Canada accounts for 14 per cent of all oilseed acres and 22 per cent of total Canadian production.
“This support will help farmers stay ahead of challenges like climate change, while keeping their crops healthy and their farms productive,” MacAulay said.
ECODA said in the press release that the funding will help add value to the sector.
“ECODA is pleased to coordinate the work of researchers, growers, value-added businesses, and exporters, working together to increase the economic value of sustainable Canadian oilseed supply chains,” said ECODA president Rory Francis.
—Updated Oct. 5.
