Forage Genetics
International and Pickseed
Canada Inc., are pleased to announce the completion of an
agreement that will assist in the development and release of
varieties of alfalfa specifically adaptable to the various
alfalfa production areas across Canada.
Forage Genetics is a leader in the development of superior
alfalfa germplasm and is particularly active too in certain
transformation technologies. Forage Genetics led the development
of varieties with lower fiber, superior digestibility and
improved persistence and resistance to winter damage.
Pickseed's role will contribute significantly to the winter
tolerance side of this work. Two Canadian sites, one in Quebec,
the other in Ontario have been established to identify germplasm
with better survival and less damage from serious winter
effects. This germplasm will contribute to the development of
more reliable cultivars adapted to play reliable roles in
precise rotations of modern dairy and livestock producers.
Additionally Pickseed will be producing yield data from
locations in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba and Alberta; data to
enable alfalfa distributors and users to better select varieties
suited for specific markets.
Dr. Mark McCaslin, President of Forage Genetics International
states that" with the more rapid turnover of alfalfa
varieties it is crucial that we support new introductions with
relevant, up-to-date data". He adds;" we believe this
collaboration will enable us to present our customers with a
solid data base, enabling them to select new products with
confidence".
Jay Hackney; Product Development Manager at Pickseed has a
critical awareness of forage testing across Canada. He states;
"the continuing decline of resources and participation by both
the provincial and federal governments makes this new activity
crucial in reliably identifying adaptable cultivars".
Hackney continues;" Pickseed's private testing identified
Pickseed 2065 MF, which rapidly rose to one of Canada's most
popular varieties- proving itself in trials and affirming that
performance across many thousands of acres".
This collaboration will bring to agriculture and the seed
industry the strengths and resultant synergies of these two
successful seed companies.
Pickseed Canada is a member of the Pickseed Companies Group.
The Group is comprised of Pickseed Canada with six locations
across Canada, Pickseed West Inc., of Tangent OR, TurfOne of
Tangent OR, Seeds Ohio of West Jefferson, OH and Mapleseed, a
division of Pickseed Canada.
Forage Genetics International is the world's leading
developer of alfalfa cultivars which are produced and marketed
throughout North America and the world.