Agricultural Research To Grow Berries In New Liskeard
May 19, 2011 3:03 PM
McGuinty Government Helping Northern Ontario Expand Farming
A new high tunnel, a form of greenhouse, will help a northern research station study the growth of raspberries and strawberries in Northern Ontario which may help expand the northern farm business sector. This addition will also help create one job and protect two existing jobs.
With support from the province, the University of Guelph's New Liskeard Agricultural Research Station is getting a high tunnel that will help with the research into the growth of berries in the North.
Making infrastructure improvement in Northern Ontario communities is a key component of the plan laid out in Ontario's 2011 Budget - Turning the Corner, to create and support 10,000 new and existing jobs for Ontario families and to strengthen local economies.
Quick Facts
- Ontario is investing $11,434 in the New Liskeard Agricultural Research Station, through the NOHFC's Emerging Technology Program, to buy a 26m by 20m high tunnel.
- High tunnels are used to extend the growing season and increase the variety of crops that can be grown in an area.
- High tunnels have been used in Europe for about 15 years and proponents believe that they could extend the season giving producers in Northern Ontario a longer picking period.
Learn More
- Read about the NOHFC's programs
- About the research work of the University of Guelph in Northern Ontario
Contacts
- Laura Blondeau
Minister's Office
416-327-1421
laura.blondeau@ontario.ca - Michel Lavoie
Communications Branch
705-564-7125
michel.lavoie@ontario.ca
Ministry of Northern Development and Mines
ontario.ca/north