By Dori Modney (@Dori_Modney on Twitter) with files from the Canadian ress

$14 million federal investment for innovation in Canada’s beef sector

Jul 12, 2018 | 2:50 PM

CALGARY —  The federal government is trying to help diversify the Canadian economy by spending money on the latest research into sustainable beef.

Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay has pledged up to 14 million dollars to help find more cost-efficient production methods.

The money will go to the Beef Cattle Research Council, a division of the Canadian Cattlemen’s Association, to financing a Science Cluster that will support the sustainable advancement of Canadian beef and forage production and help position the industry as a leader in export and economic development.

The move comes as Canadian farmers feel the effect of the escalating trade dispute between the U-S and China and uncertainty over the fate of the North American Free Trade Agreement.

MacAulay says when you can increase production and cut costs it puts more money into the pockets of families.
The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) released a statement welcoming the announcement.
 
BCRC Chair, Ryan Beierbach,  said the results from this Science Cluster will benefit farmers, ranchers, processors, retailers and consumers, as well as the broader Canadian population. 

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“The Sustainable Beef and Forage Science Cluster aims to grow beef exports and supply growing global beef demand by supporting research and technology transfer that advances Canadian beef and forage production while enhancing industry competitiveness and the public’s trust in responsible production of this high quality, nutrient-dense food.”

Canada’s beef industry will contribute more than $7.6 million to the Science Cluster, primarily through the research allocation of the Canadian Beef Cattle Check-Off, bringing the total investment to more than $21 million. The industry contribution include a commitment of $1.5 million in in-kind contributions in the form of cattle, equipment, and materials.

Agriculture Canada information says there were 11.52 million cattle and calves in 2017 on approximately 74,000 farms and ranches in Canada, with the Canadian beef sector accounting for $9 billion in farm cash receipts during the last year.