Developing allele specific molecular markers for the B.napus blackleg resistance (Rlm) genes
Our knowledge of pathogen virulence genes and plant race specific resistance (R) genes in the Leptosphaeria-Brassica pathosystem has tremendously advanced in the past two decades.
Functional validation of Brassica napus genes related to clubroot resistance through high-throughput CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing
Growing clubroot-resistant (CR) cultivars in appropriate rotations remains the most effective solution to the long-term management of clubroot disease.
Discovering the optimal rate of a dual-inhibitor N-fertilizer for maximum N2O emissions reduction
Consumers are increasingly concerned about the safety and sustainability of agricultural production practices. In response, many corporations now require suppliers to demonstrate the sustainability of their products and practices.
Comprehensive investigation of pesticides in honey, pollen, bees and soil collected from canola fields
In 2018, Health Canada proposed to phase out all agricultural uses of thiamethoxam and clothianidin neonicotinoids which are the most used insecticides for canola protection against flea beetles in the Canadian prairies.
Tracing C and N during crop residue decomposition to optimize C sequestration and predict N transfer credit
Crop residues supply critically needed carbon (C) and nutrients to the soil. These residue-derived resources support plant growth and the formation of soil organic matter, a cornerstone of soil health.
Understanding the molecular basis of NLR-mediated clubroot resistance in Brassica napus
The ability to integrate stable clubroot resistance into new germplasm is needed to protect the economy while ensuring sustainability and growth in canola growing regions.
Optimizing systems productivity, resilience and sustainability in the major Canadian ecozones
Prairie crop producers have been seeking effective approaches to increase crop yields, improve resource use efficiencies or minimize input costs, enhance agroecosystem resiliency and the whole-farm economics, and decrease the negative impact of farming on the environment while protecting the soil resource. To achieve those multiple goals simultaneously, a systems approach must be taken where Best Management Practices (BMPs) are integrated together for the entire farm.
Coordination of a crop disease monitoring network for Western Canada
Surveillance of crop health issues provides growers, extension staff, researchers, government agencies, and industry stakeholders with information that enables informed decision making with respect to integrated pest management, setting research/funding priorities, product placement, and pest distribution and severity.
Coordinated monitoring of field crop insect pests in the Prairie Ecosystem
The Prairie Pest Monitoring Network is a collaborative project. Monitoring data is released on a weekly basis when insect pests pose the greatest threat to crop yield.
Modification of surface waxes for improved water retention in canola
Crop residues supply critically needed carbon (C) and nutrients to the soil. These residue-derived resources support plant growth and the formation of soil organic matter, a cornerstone of soil health.
Deploying calcium-dependent protein kinases to fight canola pathogens
This project aims to contribute to the development of elite canola varieties that are resistant to pathogen infection for the betterment of the canola industry.
Updating the critical weed-free period in canola
This project will contribute to more efficient and sustainable weed management practices by optimizing canola genetics, plant stand densities and herbicide programs to achieve the above benefits.