July 21, 2010

An 'Indoor' Field Day

SMDC Mustard Field Day July 14

The weather ruled at our Mustard Field Day on July 14. Scheduled for the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) Research Farm, the Field Day was moved indoors to the AAFC Saskatoon Research Centre because of the muddy conditions.

A hub of research activities where more than 50 scientists work, the Saskatoon Research Centre is located on the University of Saskatchewan campus. The indoor Field Day included tours of mustard trials in greenhouses and phytotrons, which are air tight enclosed growth chambers used study environmental conditions for plant growth.

Mustard growers benefitted from a presentation by Dr. Bifang Cheng, who is conducting research into the genetic enhancement of condiment mustard (Sinapis alba and Brassica juncea) germplasm; as well as development of high-yielding condiment yellow mustard (Sinapis alba) and high-yielding hybrid cultivars in brown and oriental mustard (Brassica juncea).

Dr. Kevin Falk updated growers on his research into Ethiopian mustard(Brassica carinata), which shows promise as an industrial oilseed crop with the potential contribute to the future competitiveness of Canada's oilseed industry. 

Growers also heard information about marker assisted breeding,  identifying allergens in mustard protein and how mustard plants are regenerated from microspores to generate pure lines.

The Board of Directors and members of the SMDC extend appreciation to AAFC for facilitating our annual Field Day; and Axiom Commodities and Besco Grain Ltd. for sponsoring the delicious barbeque that was enjoyed by all.