NSAC Plans National Organic Agriculture Centre
AGRICULTURE/FISHERIES--NSAC Plans National Organic Agriculture Centre
The Nova Scotia Agricultural College has received $854,000 in funding from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, as partial funding to establish the Organic Agriculture Centre for Canada, a national centre for education and research in organic agriculture.
Federal Agriculture Minister Lyle Vanclief made the announcement during a visit to Baddeck today.
"Receiving federal support for the centre's concept and a commitment for funding is a recognition of the Nova Scotia Agricultural College as a leader in agricultural research, education and technology," said provincial Agriculture and Fisheries Minister Ernest Fage. "I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Mr. Vanclief and his staff for helping us move this initiative forward."
The Canadian organic market is increasing with the potential to reach $100 billion US within the next 10 years, as consumers across the world, mostly in the U.S.A. and Japan, request organically produced food. Markets for organic products in the Atlantic provinces are largely untapped and the demand in New England and Europe exceeds current supplies.
Organic production is more demanding and difficult than conventional agriculture in terms of knowledge of the biological process and field-management skills. Therefore, a focused effort and investment in research, training and technology transfer is required to assist interested farmers in making the transition to access these market opportunities.
The OACC will develop at least four organic courses that will be offered on site and via the Internet. Several research projects have been proposed.
"I am pleased with the co-operation and level of support this project has received from other planning and funding partners and other provinces," said Mr. Fage. "The Agricultural College has been planning this research initiative for several months, and I am eager to see it contribute to our national success in the international agricultural arena."