SaskOilseeds funded research that supported the industry’s shift towards straight cutting, including developing genetics (pod shatter resistance and dropped pod reduction), and identifying agronomic factors that validate this management approach.

Our investments in blackleg research over the past decade have helped growers minimize yield losses, maintain the effectiveness of resistant canola varieties, and reduce market risk.

In March 2021, Canada’s Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) released its final special review decision on clothianidin and thiamethoxam, two important seed treatments farmers use to protect their emerging canola crops from early season pests. SaskOilseeds was instrumental in funding research that demonstrated very low levels of neonicotinoids in provincial water bodies. Because of this provincial water monitoring data, PMRA’s final decision found that current use of these products by canola farmers does not pose an unacceptable risk to aquatic invertebrates, and that product use can be maintained for seed treatment on canola in Canada.

SaskOilseeds was instrumental in the creation of a clubroot distribution map for the province as a first step in understanding invasiveness and methods for control. The clubroot monitoring program has shaped the industry’s understanding of clubroot prevalence and contributes data to defining the location of the disease, effectively arming growers with knowledge of the potential risk on their farms.

SaskOilseeds is working with industry partners to quantify Saskatchewan’s agricultural sustainability story. For example, data on long term soil carbon sequestration is being used to build understanding with government and other regulatory agencies about canola’s contribution to greenhouse gas reduction efforts.

Do you wonder what your canola levy dollars go towards?

Here is one example of how a small percentage can go a long ways: Napkin Math

SaskOilseeds has contributed to improving growers’ net returns by developing new products and uses for canola oil and meal in food and non-food markets.

SaskOilseeds helped fund extensive research determining that canola’s amino acid profile, protein digestibility, and oil are well suited to aquaculture production. As a result, canola meal has become an important ingredient in aquaculture diets around the world.

SaskOilseeds supported research that quantified the nutritional benefits of canola as a healthy fat choice. The organization recognized the importance of sharing this information with consumers through the development of CanolaInfo.org, which is now used in global marketing initiatives by the Canola Council of Canada.

Extensive research demonstrated that including a high level of canola meal in dairy rations resulted in reduced methane emissions and an improved environmental footprint of milk production. This research further demonstrates the important role that canola meal plays in supporting efficiency in the dairy industry.

SaskOilseeds’ research has helped to provide necessary data to create tools and resources for Saskatchewan canola growers – accessible via our Resource Library.