Research to support farms, environment

The province is kicking $1.8 million to support research projects that are developing new environmental technologies, practices, and on-farm solutions, and foster efficiency and competitiveness in the agri-food sector.

The government provided the investment through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a collaboration with the University of Guelph, to help Ontario's agri-food and rural sectors innovate and grow.

Some of this research is aimed at helping farmers:

• Attract wild bees to help pollinate their fruit and vegetable crops
• Use the right tools to track soil health on their land
• Know what to grow off-season in corn fields to enhance productivity
• Overcome barriers that prevent some farmers from adopting best soil health practices

"As Canada's food university, University of Guelph is committed to research that enhances the production of safe and healthy food while protecting the environment," said Malcolm Campbell, Vice-President (Research). "With this government support, University of Guelph researchers will make world-class discoveries that help Ontario farmers nourish Canadians and preserve our natural environment."

"We are proud to support research and innovation that help Ontario farmers stay competitive and make the agriculture and food sectors more resilient while maintaining strong environmental protection. This is another great example of how our Made-in-Ontario Environment Plan ensures people in Ontario can benefit from both a healthy environment and a healthy economy," said Jeff Yurek, Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

The research looks at ways to enhance soil health and water quality such as helping tackle algae blooms in the Great Lakes as well as making farmers more resilient to climate impacts.