Research is Key to Growing Economy
The link between cutting-edge research and future economic growth was reinforced today with the announcement of four new research projects at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College in Truro.
Provincial and federal governments are investing more than $1- million in infrastructure to support the four projects, which will look at mink farming, blueberry growth, plant physiology and improving pastures.
Results of the research will assist farmers and agri-businesses in addressing production, development and management issues that are key to continued growth in the agricultural industry.
"This funding helps strengthen the college's capability for world-class research and technology development," said college principal Garth Coffin. "It reflects the quality of our proposals, the high calibre of our researchers and the importance of their work to Nova Scotia's agricultural industry and the provincial economy. We are grateful to our funding partners for their support."
In consultation with industry, researchers will focus on the connection between the environment and plant growth; the genetic makeup, hardiness and yield of wild blueberries; mink feeding options and genetic markers that produce desirable economic traits such as high quality fur and better reproductive abilities; and the sustainable and innovative use of forage crops, particularly pastures, as a feed source for ruminant livestock such as dairy cows and sheep.
The Canada/Nova Scotia COOPERATION Agreement on Economic Diversification is investing $563,640 in specialized equipment, lab renovations and supplies. The Agreement is managed by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and Nova Scotia Economic Development.
"By investing in agriculture research and addressing the research needs of the industry, we are laying the groundwork for innovative new approaches to producing food, breeding livestock, and sustaining our natural resources," said Ernest Fage, Minister of Agriculture and Marketing, speaking on behalf of Economic Development Minister Gordon Balser. "The more innovative we are, the more potential we have for growth and for meeting the needs of consumers here in Nova Scotia and around the world."
"Broadening the research opportunities at Nova Scotia Agricultural College will provide numerous economic benefits for Nova Scotia and the Atlantic region," said Senator Bernie Boudreau, Leader of the Government in the Senate and Minister responsible for Nova Scotia, on behalf of George Baker, Secretary of State for ACOA. "These projects contribute to the goal of making our province an international centre for education and research."
Agriculture currently supports 16,000 jobs and contributes $1 billion annually to the provincial economy. Nova Scotia exported about $150 million in agricultural-related products in 1998 to such countries as the United States, the European Union, Japan, and the Caribbean.
Another $563,640 is being provided by the Canadian Foundation for Innovation. The foundation, established in 1997 by the federal government, is an independent, not-for-profit corporation that invests in research infrastructure at Canadian universities, hospitals, colleges and research institutions.
"The Canadian Foundation for Innovation's investment in research infrastructure across Canada is an investment in people," said David Strangway, president and CEO of the foundation. "In supporting the development of world-class expertise in institutions such as the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, the foundation is helping to put in place the right conditions to train young Canadians for the knowledge-based economy."