SaskBarley invests in future of barley breeding with USask research expansion
For Immediate Release
May 22, 2025 (Saskatoon, SK) — The Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission (SaskBarley) is proud to announce its support of the University of Saskatchewan’s $11.8 million infrastructure expansion. This investment will enhance research capacity for the College of Agriculture and Bioresources and the world-renowned Crop Development Centre (CDC).
SaskBarley has invested $850,000 into the project, which includes the new Harrington Plant Growth Facility and the Soil Science Field Facility, as well as upgrades to the Crop Science Field Lab. These facilities will expand research and teaching capacity and enable year-round plant breeding and seed development for key crops, including barley.
“SaskBarley is proud to support one of the most successful barley breeding programs in Canada,” said Cody Glenn, Chair of SaskBarley. “The Crop Development Centre’s barley varieties continue to dominate Canadian acres across both malt and feed categories. This investment will bolster barley breeding and help ensure that Saskatchewan farmers have continued access to world-class genetics and innovations.”
The Harrington Plant Growth Facility, named in honour of USask alumnus and renowned plant breeder Dr. James Harrington, will provide much-needed indoor growth space to speed up breeding cycles and improve year-round research efficiency. Meanwhile, the Soil Science Field Facility will bolster research related to soil health, fertility, and climate change mitigation—issues critical to the future of sustainable crop production.
SaskBarley’s contribution is part of a broad coalition of support from industry and government partners, including the Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF), Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission, Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture, Saskatchewan Oilseeds Development Commission, and many others.
“Today, there are only three public barley breeding programs left in Canada. Investments like this are essential to maintain a strong pipeline of new barley varieties that meet the demands of producers, maltsters, and global buyers,” Glenn added. “We’re committed to ensuring our farmers remain competitive with the best tools and technologies available.”
Construction on the new facilities is already underway and is expected to be completed by July 2026. For more information visit cdc.usask.ca.
For more information, please contact:
Serra McSymytz
Communications Manager
SaskBarley
smcsymytz@saskbarley.com
About SaskBarley – Led by a producer-elected Board of Directors from across Saskatchewan, the mission of SaskBarley is to identify, develop and support research, market development, and extension initiatives that establish long-term, profitable and sustainable barley production for Saskatchewan producers.
Photo credit: Crop Development Centre, University of Saskatchewan
