Enhancing Canola Disease Management: a comprehensive canola disease training program for farmers
Term: 1 Year, beginning 2024
Status: Ongoing
Researcher(s): Gursahib Singh, ICDC; Jessica Enns/Koralie Mack, WARC; Mike Hall, ECRF
SaskCanola Investment: $29,200
Total Project Cost: $29,200
Funding Partners: N/A
Objective
This demonstration aims to train canola growers to identify canola diseases, providing clear differentiation methods and effective treatment strategies.
Project Description
This demonstration holds considerable significance for local canola producers due to its comprehensive approach to addressing the intricate challenges posed by diseases like Blackleg, Sclerotinia stem rot, and Verticillium stripe. The primary objective is to narrow the knowledge gap among farmers, recognizing the distinct management strategies required for each disease. A noteworthy aspect is the emphasis on collaboration and knowledge-sharing, drawing expertise from key entities, including Agri-ARM sites, SaskCanola, Crop Extension Specialists, Provincial Specialists (Plant Diseases), and the Canola Council of Canada (CCC) sites.
The proposed training program is designed for practical, hands-on, and educational workshops demonstrating each disease-specific symptom (visual aid, preserved disease specimens, and field samples). This project's crucial element is acknowledging existing resources, particularly those offered by the Canola Council of Canada. By integrating this wealth of knowledge into the training program, this demonstration seeks to enhance farmers' understanding of disease management, enabling them to make informed decisions tailored to the specific requirements of each canola disease.
Additionally, the project will directly address the economic concerns of local producers. Side-by-side comparisons of disease management strategies based on risk assessment tool (CCC Sclerotinia risk app) and traditional approaches will provide evidence-based recommendations to help growers make more informed and cost-effective decisions. Beyond financial benefits, this aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices.
Moreover, the project promotes collaborative research efforts, particularly for Verticillium, aiming to develop targeted management strategies Engaging canola growers in knowledge exchange with experts is anticipated to yield valuable insights and advancements in Verticillium disease management. This collaborative effort is designed to give growers a deeper understanding of disease epidemiology and effective disease management practices.