Governments invest in Manitoba vegetable research

The Canada and Manitoba governments have invested more than $210,000 in a new vegetable research site near Winkler, Man. The research conducted there is expected to focus on improving yields, developing new varieties and creating opportunities for potato, sweet potato and carrot growers.

According to a government press release, this funding will support research focused on: nutrient and pest management for potatoes; new varieties of sweet potato that are better suited for Manitoba’s shorter growing season; and variety evaluation and crop management techniques to improve quality and yield for carrots.

“Our Government is proud to support research for the improvement of yields and the development of new vegetable varieties in Canada. This investment will help Canada’s vegetable farmers expand their markets in Canada and abroad, creating new opportunities and generating greater returns for Canadian farmers,” says Lawrence MacAulay, Canada’s Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

The research site will be operated by Peak of the Market, a grower-owned cooperative responsible for selling Manitoba’s fresh market potatoes and other vegetables. The company will contribute more than $477,000 toward this three-year research project.

“We appreciate working in partnership with government, which will allow us to continue to build the industry. New crops and varieties are a key component to ongoing success,” says Keith Kuhl, chair of Peak of the Market and president of Southern Potato.