For the long term, we need a resistant variety, but we all know the length of time required to breed varieties. Pathology work is needed as well as grower education on using agronomic practices to mitigate losses.
The losses will not be limited to grain farmers. Without good-quality feed grain, it will be impossible to have a vibrant red meat or any livestock industry in our region. One example of the lost market, which paid a premium to farmers, is the salmon fishery. We used to sell our wheat in local feed mills, which processed our grain into fish feed, but due to the Fusarium, all the grain is now imported. We have completely lost that market.
We are a small market, and our farmers need to take advantage of every opportunity.
To summarize, the key priorities of the Atlantic grain and oilseed farmers are the following: agriculture infrastructure, both on farm and commercial,
public research on agronomic and yield increases,
and Fusarium head blight resistant and control,
The council appreciates the opportunity to make this presentation on helping us build a stronger Atlantic agriculture industry.
Thank you. I look forward to your questions.