Saskatchewan Bulletin
Focus on Verticillium Stripe
What is verticillium stripe?
Verticillium stripe (VS) of canola is caused by the fungal species Verticillium longisporum. It was first detected in 2014 and then found across the Prairies in disease surveys in 2015. Although new to Canada, it is a serious problem for canola growers in Europe – and there is potential for it to have a similar impact on yields here.
Disease symptoms in canola include leaf chlorosis, early ripening, stunting and, as the disease progresses, necrosis and shredding of stem tissue. Once the plant is fully ripe, the stem peels to reveal tiny black microsclerotia, which resemble ground pepper in appearance. For more information on the disease, see the Canola Encyclopedia at canolaencyclopedia.ca.
What action is being taken to combat the disease?
Most of our understanding about VS comes from Europe. Dr. Jasper Depotter, an agronomist and researcher from Germany, has shared his knowledge of the disease, which has served as a basis for research projects in Canada.
Because VS spreads so quickly, SaskCanola’s research team identified the need for more information and better tools for assessing severity and risk of yield loss. SaskCanola has invested a total of $739,940 in VS research over the past 4 years. These projects were highlighted in last month’s Verticillium Stripe Workshop:
- Dr. Dilantha Fernando at the University of Manitoba is working on a project to learn more about the biology of verticillium stripe.
- Dr. Hossein Borhan at AAFC in Saskatoon is developing tools for genotyping and monitoring changes in the pathogen, and the interaction between canola and the pathogen.
- Dr. Sheau-Fang Hwang and Ph.D. student Yixiao (Becky) Wang, at the University of Alberta, are studying verticillium stripe management examining and quantifying yield loss from this disease and evaluating performance of canola cultivars against the disease.
Video available this spring!
Be sure to keep your eye on the SaskCanola website to check for a new verticillium stripe video that summarizes current knowledge and best management practices. To learn more about SaskCanola’s research investments and to view research results, visit our website at saskcanola.com
2022 SaskCanola Board Election
SaskCanola is looking for growers who are interested in taking on leadership positions and honing their leadership skills to help build a healthy future for canola. Four director positions will open for nominations this Summer.
The goal of SaskCanola’s Board of Directors is to ensure that the Commission is prudently managing the investment of 20,000 levy paying canola growers in Saskatchewan. Director responsibilities include five board meetings per year, plus participation on various committees and appointments to external boards.
If you are interested in running for the Board, we encourage you to reach out to one of our current directors to discuss the opportunity further.
NEW SaskCanola Website
Launching this Spring! SaskCanola is revamping its website to more effectively support farmers and provide a better user experience. Research results will be available with additional information about each project. It will also feature more streamlined content, comprehensive resources for canola production, plus expanded information on SaskCanola’s investment priorities.
Driving Market Expansion through Strategic Alliances
SaskCanola has strategically aligned with respected and influential organizations to create consumer awareness and enhance public trust in canola products. These partner organizations bring the canola story to the national stage and offer persuasive and factual information for Canadians.
National Partnerships
Canola Eat Well
SaskCanola partners with Alberta Canola and Manitoba Canola Growers under the Canola Eat Well brand to connect canola and consumers.
Heart and Stroke Foundation
1.6 million Canadians are living with heart disease and stroke and 9 in 10 Canadians have at least one risk factor, such as high blood pressure, obesity, tobacco use, lack of physical activity, and diabetes. Heart disease in Canada is the leading cause of death among Canadians. As National Recipe Partner, we have developed heart-healthy and nutritious recipes and collections that continue to be the most viewed on the Heart and Stroke website.
Diabetes Canada
One in three Canadians has diabetes or prediabetes. Food is the key to managing diabetes and reducing the risk of heart attacks, stroke, and other complications. Now more than ever due to COVID – 19, the wait time to see health professionals can be long and can leave people who are newly diagnosed unsure of what they can eat. Meal plans are an ideal way to guide people into consuming regular and nutritious amounts of food to keep blood glucose levels within range. Canola-sponsored meal plans have been viewed more 65,000 times since their launch in November 2020.
Provincial Partnerships
SaskCanola
SaskCanola provides funding and a board representative to each of the two public trust oriented Saskatchewan-based organizations whose efforts work to bridge the urban-rural gap.
Agriculture in the Classroom
SaskCanola is a Superhero sponsor of Agriculture in the Classroom Saskatchewan, whose goal is to connect school-age kids and agriculture through innovative, experiential and curriculum-based programs and resources. SaskCanola director Keith Fournier is appointed to the Ag in the Classroom Sask Board.
Farm & Food Care
SaskCanola is a Principal Member of Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, an organization that provides a coordinated effort and unified voice for the agriculture industry, connecting consumers with fact-based, modern farming information and resources through their CanadianFoodFocus.org initiatives. In 2021, Canadian Food Focus reached over 13 million people with 3 million engagements. Canola oil was featured in articles, recipes and cook-alongs. SaskCanola director David Altrogge is appointed to the Farm & Food Care Sask Board.