Canaryseed Commission organizing plot tour

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

A research plot tour scheduled for July 18 is the latest project undertaken by Saskatchewan’s new canaryseed commission.

The commission was formed last year with a vision of improving canaryseed profitability through increased market diversity and crop innovation. Its primary objectives are to co-ordinate research and expand markets for canaryseed for the benefit of producers and other stakeholders.

Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food special crops agronomist Ray McVicar says the tour at the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research farm at Indian Head will showcase some of the results of research on canaryseed innovations so far.

“We’ll see research plots showing the agronomy of canaryseed and other crops including millet and niger seed,” McVicar said. “There will be research on canaryseed fertility, based on a new study to compare sources of chloride for its ability to improve or stabilize yields.”

The Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan is funded by a refundable check-off of $1.75 per net tonne on canaryseed sales. The check-off will allow growers to have more control over how the crop is developed.

In 2006, there were about 285,000 acres seeded to canaryseed in the province. Total production was over 112,000 tonnes. This qualifies Saskatchewan as by far the dominant producer in the world. The crop is valued at over $43 million per year.

One of the projects the commission has undertaken is an examination of potential new uses for canaryseed, based on its nutritional properties. A technical team recommended that further investigation be done into the possible use of canaryseed for topping replacement for baked goods, blending flour for cookies, roasted whole seed, nutrient bars and high-value supplements for hog food. If research points to the expansion of canaryseed products for human consumption, clearance would be required from Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

McVicar encourages all interested producers to come out to the research plot tour.

“The Crop Development Centre at the University of Saskatchewan has the only canaryseed breeding program in North America, and one of their sites with potential new lines of canaryseed and millet is located at Indian Head. So the tour will be an opportunity to check out some of these cultivars,” he said.

McVicar notes that Indian Head is also the site of the Zero-Till Field Day, so there will be an opportunity to view these plots, as well.

The canaryseed tour is scheduled from 1:15 to 4:00 p.m. on July 18. Those attending are asked to assemble at the Pavilion Building on the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada research farm, located just east of Indian Head. There is no charge for the tour.

For more information, contact:
Ray McVicar, Provincial Specialist – Special Crops
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4665
E-mail: rmcvicar@agr.gov.sk.ca