CBRC Invests $1.8 Million to Enhance CDC Barley Breeding Program

The Canadian Barley Research Coalition (CBRC) has committed $1.8 million to support the Crop Development Centre (CDC) in its barley breeding activities. This investment aims to enhance the development of new barley varieties, ensuring that farmers in Western Canada remain competitive in the agricultural market.

The CBRC is a collaboration involving the Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley), Alberta Grains, and the Manitoba Crop Alliance. Dr. Curtis Pozniak, the director of the CDC, noted that the program’s past achievements stem from a combination of skilled personnel, state-of-the-art malt and molecular marker laboratories, and the capacity to assess numerous breeding lines. He emphasized that this renewed funding will bolster these essential elements moving forward.

Cody Glenn, the chair of the CBRC and SaskBarley, expressed confidence in the program’s ability to generate new barley varieties that offer improved yield and agronomic benefits. “This funding extension ensures that Western Canadian farmers can expect continued advancements from a world-class program,” he stated.

The sentiment of optimism was echoed by leaders from the member organizations of the CBRC. Scott Jesperson, the chair of Alberta Grains, underscored the significance of the funding for farmers. “The CBRC’s investment in the CDC reflects the importance of providing farmers with access to high-performing, resilient barley varieties,” he remarked. Jesperson highlighted that the funding would yield benefits on farms, helping barley producers enhance yields, manage disease pressure, and maintain competitiveness in global markets.

In addition, Jonothan Hodson, chair of the Manitoba Crop Alliance, praised the CDC’s impressive track record in developing high-performance barley varieties suited for various end-use markets. He stated, “The CBRC’s continued support for this innovative breeding program will ensure barley remains a productive and profitable crop for farmers across Western Canada.”

The continuation of funding for the CDC aligns with the CBRC’s long-term goals of fostering investments that enhance profitability and competitiveness for barley farmers in the region. This commitment not only supports agricultural innovation but also plays a crucial role in sustaining the economic viability of barley production in Western Canada.

As the barley market evolves, the investment by the CBRC signifies a proactive approach to maintaining high standards in barley breeding. With this financial backing, the CDC is well-positioned to tackle emerging challenges and seize new opportunities, ensuring that farmers can thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.