Watch our discussion around AAFC cuts and farmer-funded research, which points to the need for structural change in Western Canada’s breeding ecosystem.
This Seed World Canada webinar brings together leaders from across Canada’s seed and crop development sector to discuss the future of plant breeding in Western Canada amid proposed federal research cuts. Hosted by Marc Zienkiewicz, editor of Seed World Canada, the webinar explores how reductions to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) research funding could impact Canada’s crop innovation pipeline and what a stronger, more resilient plant breeding system could look like.
The panel features experts from industry, research organizations, and regional government, including Jeff Reed (SeCan), Jocelyn Velestuk (Canadian Wheat Research Coalition), Candace Woods and Todd Green (County of Newell), and Brent Derkatch (CANTERRA SEEDS). Together they examine the risks associated with potential closures of research stations and variety trial sites across the Prairies, which are essential for testing and developing high-performing crop varieties adapted to Western Canadian conditions.
Speakers emphasize that plant breeding is foundational infrastructure for Canada’s agricultural competitiveness, supporting crop diversification, productivity, and long-term resilience. Panelists also highlight the growing role of farmer investment and public-private collaboration in sustaining breeding programs. For example, farmers currently fund half of all wheat breeding in Canada, demonstrating their significant stake in the innovation system.
The discussion also explores emerging partnership models, such as the County of Newell’s management of the CDC South research facility, which illustrates how local governments, researchers, and industry can work together to preserve vital research infrastructure.
Overall, the webinar underscores that maintaining Canada’s global leadership in agriculture will require new collaborative funding models, stronger industry partnerships, and long-term investment in plant breeding innovation.
