The BC Wine Grape Council will receive up to $C2.1 million to address challenges facing grape producers in BC by improving pest and disease measures and enhancing grape quality, Canada’s Ministry of Agriculture and Agri-foods said in a statement.
"Canada recognises that investments in agricultural research help Canadian farmers become more competitive and profitable," Canadian Parliamentary Secretary Pierre Lemieux said.
"Improved quality of grapes and a sustainable production cycle will help our farmers boost their bottom line."
The research will focus on enhancing the sensory and aroma qualities of grapes, and identifying new methods for the control of the two most prevalent grape pests, as well as disease management and water conservation techniques.
The project is being funded under Canada’s Developing Innovative Agri-Products initiative, which is intended to support industry-led science and technology projects.
The initiative is part of the larger Growing Canadian Agri-Innovations Program, a C$158 million five-year program that promotes industry-led innovation initiatives that help get new agricultural products into the marketplace and improve agricultural processes.
Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
