Science

Weather is a big factor in combine losses

KEY RESULT: A combine yield loss survey of 50 combines across the Prairies in 2019 found that weather factors had significant influence on losses. This emphasizes the need to regularly adjust and test throughout the day and harvest season. Temperatures greater than 23°C, relative humidity less than 45 per cent, and low cloud cover all...

Science

Airflow key to in-bin drying

KEY RESULT: Supplemental heat added to natural air drying systems can improve drying capacity for canola as long as airflow is a minimum of one cubic foot per minute per bushel (cfm/bu.). Air must be heated to at least 5°C but not more than 30°C for in-bin drying. PROJECT TITLE, PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: “Best Management Practices...

Science

Toward a boost in canola’s waxy defensive layer

KEY RESULT: This study identified the chemical composition of surface wax in B. napus and various other Brassica species. It also identified genes responsible for wax production. It advances the possibility of eventually selecting for canola lines better able to produce more or different wax in response to drought and pest threats. PROJECT TITLE, PRINCIPAL...

Science

Tool helps breeders select for complex multi-gene traits

KEY RESULT: AAFC research scientists have put together a nested association mapping (NAM) population for spring Brassica napus canola, a tool which has helped them identify the multitude of genes associated with complex traits – such as seed glucosinolate content. Breeders can use the tool to select for complex traits and identify cultivars that perform...

Science

Short Updates for Ongoing Research

Canadian canola researchers have dozens of ongoing projects. Some are funded by canola growers through their levy payments to SaskCanola, Alberta Canola and Manitoba Canola Growers. Some are funded through the Canola AgriScience Cluster, a partnership between Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) and the canola industry under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership (CAP). Over a five-year period, this initiative will invest $25.5 million in research to optimize yield and quality, improve nutrient and water use efficiency, and enhance integrated pest management practices. Here are short descriptions and updates for these projects.