AWC invests in funding for research

The Alberta Wheat Commission (AWC) is investing nearly $280,000 in four research projects that could lower farmers’ input costs through improved integrated pest management technology.

Additional funding for these projects is coming from Sask Wheat and Manitoba Wheat and Barley Growers Association. Funding is being matched by the Ag Development Fund (ADF). ADF funding was announced last week by Saskatchewan agriculture minister David Marit during CropSphere.

“These projects could result in new, disease and pest resistant varieties and improved agronomic practices that will positively impact our margins,” says Terry Young, AWC Research Chair.

AWC-funded projects and contributions

-Accelerating the introgression of enhanced stem solidness from tall wheatgrass to spring wheat: $43,478 | Pierre Hucl, University of Saskatchewan;

-Building on past success: furthering our understanding of wheat stripe rust to mitigate disease and improve resistance: $65,217 | Randy Kutcher, University of Saskatchewan;

-Developing Novel Technologies for Controlling Herbicide Resistant Wild Oat in Wheat $104,348 | Steve Shirtliffe, University of Saskatchewan;

-Alternatives to Sm1: hairy glumes, awns, and egg antibiosis for managing wheat midge: $65,000 | Tyler Wist, Agriculture and AgriFood Canada.