|
MAJOR
RECENT ACCOMPLISHMENTS IN AGRONOMY
Canadian
Foundation for Innovation Grant for "Sustainable Cropping
Systems"
In 2000, agronomists in Plant Science, Soil Science and Entomology
received a $1.7 million grant to purchase field equipment
for sustainable cropping systems research. Funds were used
to purchase two new plot combines, three state-of-the-art
no-till small plot seeders, two quads complete with high resolution
GPS (for weed patch mapping), metereological equipment for
landscape-scale research, root washer, insect suction trapping
network, and numerous trucks and trailers. Also, funds will
be used to install misting systems at Carman and the "Point"
to facilitate plant disease research.
Pesticide-Free
Production
In 2000, Drs. Entz, Van Acker and Derksen received a grant
of $600,000 for research on reduced pesticide crop production
systems. The research includes two long-term crop rotation
studies (located at Carman and Brandon) and an on-farm research
program which operates province-wide.
Crop
Diagnostic School
The Crop Diagnostic School runs for two weeks every summer
(since 1992). This is a collaborative effort between Manitoba
Agriculture and Food Soils and Crops Branch and the Faculty
of Agricultural and Food Sciences at the U of M. In 2000,
over 600 participants, including industry agronomists, farmers
and students, participated in the school. In 2001, a special
one-day session on "Farming with Fewer Chemicals"
was added to the agenda.
Glenlea
Long-Term Crop Rotation Study
This long-term, large-scale study is in it's 10th year. The
Glenlea study contains 16 different crop production systems,
including western Canada's oldest organic cropping systems.
This study is unique in that each replicate contains a one
acre restored prairie grass planting, which serves as a benchmark
site for soil and environmental measurements.
Public Addresses
University of Manitoba agronomists have an excellent reputation
within the scientific community, and within the farming industry.
All of our faculty members are recognized nationally, and
they often give lectures and seminars around the country.
|
