CHARLOTTETOWN, PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND — Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Minister of Fisheries and Oceans and Member of Parliament for Egmont Gail Shea announced July an investment of C$792,064 (613,343) to the Atlantic Grains Council (AGC) to improve the quality and output of grains and oilseeds produced in the three Maritime provinces.

Under the project, field trials will be conducted to look at ways to boost the output of corn and soybean crops, ensure effective fungicide use, and identify agronomic and meteorological factors affecting grain and oilseed yields.

"The grains and oilseeds sector is an important driver of the economy here in Atlantic Canada and across the country. This investment will boost producers' bottom lines as well as contribute to the long-term sustainability of the sector in the Atlantic region," said Ritz.

In addition to providing project funding, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is providing scientific expertise to research crop disease and yield enhancement in small grain cereals and soybeans, as well as to identify the factors affecting the yields of these grain and oilseeds.

"Our government recognizes the value of the grains and oilseed sector and its importance for the agriculture industry in this province. This investment reaffirms our commitment to producers, and supports the work of the Atlantic Grains Council here and in Atlantic Canada," said Shea.