CHARLOTTETOWN, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND, CANADA — The Canadian government has pledged nearly C$5 million over five years to develop new agronomic technologies, adaptive crop varieties and cropping systems to address environmental challenges.

The investment will help ensure the long-term sustainability of crops such as canola, soybeans and mustard, all of which are vital to Canadian agriculture, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-Food.

Up to C$4,348,090 will be provided to the Eastern Canada Oilseed Development Alliance (ECODA).

The project aims to improve the long-term security and sustainability of the Eastern Canadian oilseed industry by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, coordinating knowledge transfer among stakeholders, and improving soil health, crop resilience and yields.

“Oilseed crops are a vital part of farming here in Eastern Canada,” said Lawrence MacAulay, agriculture minister. “This support will help farmers stay ahead of challenges like climate change, while keeping their crops healthy and their farms productive. By working together, we’re ensuring a bright future for the oilseed industry and for Canadian agriculture.”  

In 2023, oilseeds were seeded on just over 4 million acres in Eastern Canada with 70% of this acreage soybeans. Eastern Canada accounts for 14% of seeded acres of oilseeds and 22% of total production.