Saskatchewan Backs Sustainable Agriculture with £1.1M Investment

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• The Saskatchewan government has allocated over $1.1 million through the Saskatchewan Advantage Innovation Fund (SAIF) and Agtech Growth Fund (AGF) to support four industry-led research and development projects. These initiatives focus on advancing sustainable technologies across agriculture, energy, and manufacturing sectors.
• The funded projects include EcoLoop Sustainable Technologies, which is developing a process to eliminate chemicals from firefighting foams while producing a fertilizer; Greenwave Innovations, working on a data-driven platform to automate industrial equipment monitoring; and Archetype Global 3D, creating an easy-to-assemble concrete 3D printer for faster production of building materials.
• These investments aim to accelerate the commercialization of game-changing technologies, driving economic and employment growth in communities across Saskatchewan. By supporting sustainable practices, the province seeks to enhance the competitiveness and resilience of its agriculture sector.
• This funding aligns with Saskatchewan’s broader strategy to position itself as a leader in sustainable agriculture. It complements previous investments, such as the $25 million allocated for strategic research chairs at the University of Saskatchewan’s College of Agriculture and Bioresources, focusing on areas like crop genetic improvement and environmental sustainability.

The Government of Saskatchewan has announced a £1.1 million (C$1.4 million) investment to advance sustainable agricultural practices across the province. 

The funding, delivered through the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF), aims to support research projects that promote environmental stewardship and boost productivity in the sector.

The ADF supports research initiatives that address real-world challenges faced by farmers and agri-businesses. This year’s investment will fund 26 projects focused on areas such as soil health, water management, crop resilience, and livestock care.

Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Minister, Daryl Harrison, stated that the investment reflects the province’s ongoing commitment to supporting innovation and sustainability in agriculture. “Our producers are constantly adapting to new challenges, and this funding will help deliver the tools and knowledge they need to remain competitive while protecting our natural resources,” said Harrison.

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One of the projects receiving funding is a study on the use of cover crops to reduce soil erosion and improve nutrient retention. 

Another focuses on enhancing cattle welfare during extreme weather conditions through improved shelter design and feeding strategies.

Research outcomes are expected to benefit not only Saskatchewan’s producers but also the broader Canadian agricultural sector. 

Many of the projects are being carried out in partnership with the University of Saskatchewan and other research institutions.

The ADF is supported by the federal-provincial Canadian Agricultural Partnership, which provides funding to advance innovation, market development, and sustainability in the sector.

This announcement underscores Saskatchewan’s role as a national leader in agricultural innovation, with a strong emphasis on practical, science-based solutions that support both productivity and long-term environmental health.