Ontario invests in agri-food research in collaboration with University of Guelph

The Ontario government is investing $7 million into agri-food research projects to support environmentally-friendly agricultural practices, protect livestock health and welfare, and stimulate economic growth within the agri-food sector.

“Agri-food research is key to strengthening Ontario’s agriculture sector; this advanced research is critical for our province to remaining a world leader in the industry,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister, Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “These projects help to develop the most advanced management practices, improve production efficiency and drive economic growth that strengthens farm businesses, the sector and rural economies.”

The Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance will collaborate with the University of Guelph on projects that include:

• Evaluating the ability of natural buffer strips to reduce the impact of agricultural practices on freshwater ecosystems, protecting water quality and biodiversity;
• Studying the impact of using herbs instead of antibiotics to improve calf health, growth, and welfare;
• Assessing the capacity of communities to respond to rural and agricultural issues and identify best practices;
• Examining pests, diseases and weeds impacting Ontario crops, develop integrated pest management practices, and examine crop genetics to improve varieties and disease resistance;
• Addressing pathways of common illnesses to improve the health of young animals and evaluating probiotics and alternative control measures.

“As a global leader in agri-food research and innovation, the University of Guelph is committed to creating world-class, cutting-edge solutions that power current and future competitiveness of Ontario’s remarkable agri-food sector,” said Malcolm Campbell, Vice-President (Research), University of Guelph. “Discoveries made at U of G, fuelled by OMAFRA’s incredible support, will continue to underpin our province’s sustainable food systems, while ensuring a healthy, prosperous society for generations to come.”