Native entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have potential for biocontrol of cutworms and canola root maggots, performing fairly well when compared to introduced commercial species.

In most cases (but not all), striped flea beetles will emerge about one to two weeks before crucifer flea beetles. Their early arrival does not seem to have any negative effect on crucifer flea beetle activity.

The Canola AgriScience Cluster focuses on priority areas of research to support sustainable growth of the canola industry. This includes climate change and environment, economic growth and development, improving canola’s resilience in response to climatic stressors and pest pressures as well as knowledge and technology transfer and impact assessment aspects.

The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership canola research projects are funded in part by the Government of Canada with contributions from Alberta Canola, SaskOilseeds, Manitoba Canola Growers, the Ontario Canola Growers Association and industry, including the Canola Council of Canada. These projects, which span up to five years, began in 2023.

Canola Agronomic Research Program (CARP) projects that commenced in 2024 will investigate management solutions related to blackleg, clubroot, flea beetles, midges, sclerotinia, verticillium stripe and other biotic and abiotic threats. These projects are funded by Alberta Canola, SaskOilseeds and Manitoba Canola Growers, as well as the Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF).

The significant number of plant establishment, nutrient management, integrated pest management and genetics projects that are still in progress cover topics ranging from nitrogen-fixing bacteria, to verticillium stripe, to the development of climate ready canola. Canola growers contribute to these projects through their levy payments to SaskOilseeds, Alberta Canola and Manitoba Canola Growers. Many projects also have funding from other commodity groups, provincial sources (such as Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund) and other Prairie-wide funders, including Western Grains Research Foundation and Alberta’s Results Driven Agriculture Research.