PORT BURWELL, NOVEMBER 2, 2011 – The Government of Canada is helping farmers diversify their crops and boost their profitability by investing in research of new high value crops. Member of Parliament Joe Preston (Elgin-Middlesex-London) announced today an investment of over $35,000 to the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association (OSCIA).

“Thanks to the hard work of our farmers and the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association, new opportunities for two grain alternatives are growing in the Sand Plains region,” said MP Preston, on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. “This investment is proof that our Government is committed to working together with farmers and other stakeholders so we can ensure our rural communities and the agricultural sector both remain strong and competitive.”

The Sand Plains region is well-positioned geographically and economically to produce and market quinoa and amaranth, two high demand, high value grain alternatives. This small scale trial production research project will test these two crops for viability. OSCIA will also develop a survey to determine the willingness of producers in the region to grow the crops. The results from this research will be used for a subsequent project on commercial field trials for the 2012-2013 growing season. 

This investment is being provided through the Sand Plains Community Development Fund administered by the Ontario Association of Community Futures Development Corporations. The fund targets community-based initiatives that support regional development, attract and retain people and investment, and stimulate business development and job creation. 

For more information on the Sand Plains Community Development Fund, please visit www.ontcfdc.com or www.sandplains.ca.