Introduction

Research and innovation is a top priority for all three of the organizations representing Ontario corn, soybean and wheat producers. This book outlines research projects currently supported through the Ontario Corn Producers’ Association, the Ontario Soybean Growers and the Ontario Wheat Producers’ Marketing Board.

Producers often see the fruits of research efforts result in better yields, improved crop management techniques and crop protection products. The goal of this publication is to provide producers with more information on current research projects supported by OCPA, OSG and OWPMB.

This publication also serves to inform producers about the current priorities of their three representing organizations. In total, the OCPA, OSG and OWPMB have invested nearly $1.2 million into research in 2008-2009 alone.

The funds are distributed to specific projects based on research priorities set annually by each organization. Each organization has listed agronomy, insect and disease management, and crop utilization as priorities for the 2008-2009 year. In addition to these priorities, individual organizations also have additional crop-specific priorities.

Board members that sit on the three research committees of each organization play an important role in making decisions on projects that receive support.

In addition to grower funding, most projects include several other funding partners. Many projects receive further funding from government programs, including the Ontario Research & Development Program and the CanAdvance Program. Many projects also receive support from several private sources, including crop protection companies and seed companies.

The principle researchers for each project have outlined their work throughout the following pages. However, most projects are conducted by a team of scientists and technicians working together.

Research dollars support the projects described in the pages of this book as well as other research and extension work throughout Ontario’s countryside. Although not highlighted in this book, money from OCPA, OSG and OWPMB is also designated for breeding programs, extension activities, market development and performance trials.

For more information, please visit the websites or call the individual organization.