Released on September 23, 2019
Today, Agriculture Minister David Marit proclaimed September 23 to 29, Biotech Week in Saskatchewan to celebrate the role biotechnology plays in the agriculture industry.“Agriculture is a constantly evolving industry, and biotechnology helps us to keep up with the demands that come along with that,” Marit said. “Thanks to cutting-edge research, our industry is making significant strides in areas such as environmental stewardship and disease resistance in crops.”
Saskatchewan is considered a biotechnology leader, with roughly one-third of Canada’s agricultural biotechnology sector calling the province home.
Biotech Week, first proclaimed in Canada in 2003, celebrates the work of these researchers, as well as raises awareness of the role the sector plays in agriculture and the life sciences. Biotech Week in Saskatchewan is celebrated at the same time as both National and Global Biotech Week.
“The innovation and creativity of researchers in Saskatchewan’s bioscience sector is extensive and deserves to be celebrated,” Ag-West Bio President and CEO Wilf Keller said. “Advancements due to biotechnology are helping feed a growing population in a more environmentally friendly manner. I look forward to seeing where they take us in the future.”
The Government of Saskatchewan supports agricultural innovation through a variety of research-focused programs and initiatives. This includes a $30.8 million commitment to agricultural research for the 2019-20 fiscal year.
Ag-West Bio is co-ordinating activities across the province to mark the week, including several events in Regina and Saskatoon.
A full list of events is available at www.globalbiotechweeksask.ca/.
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For more information, contact:
Jamie Richards
Agriculture
Regina
Phone: 306-787-1077
Email: jamie.richards@gov.sk.ca