SASKATOON – The federal and Saskatchewan governments have announced a record $7 million for research into livestock and forage projects in Saskatchewan.
Provincial agriculture minister Bob Bjornerud said the money will go to 27 projects through the Agriculture Development Fund.
“Our research programs are intended to provide real benefits for Saskatchewan producers but especially at the farmgate,” he said.
The recipients include: the University of Saskatchewan, $1.8 million; Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization, $2.5 million; Prairie Swine Centre, $1.8 million; Prairie Agricultural Machinery Institute, $669,000; and Saskatchewan Research Council, $195,000.
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VIDO and PSC also receive operating money through new five-year grants.
Bjornerud said the research money has already sparked another $1.3 million in third party funding.
“When things are good, it’s probably the best time to start putting money forward into research projects,” he said.
The recipients were selected from among more than 150 applications.
Projects include:
• evaluating zero-till openers for pasture rejuvenation;
• evaluating strategies to more effectively use cool season corn for grazing;
• determining optimal maturity to cut crops for swath grazing;
• evaluating canola meal as a protein and energy source for cattle;
• assessing bromegrass varieties for better lamb performance;
• improving the feed value of vegetable proteins for use in poultry feed;
• improving feed use efficiency in dairy production.
