We Produce Innovation

In a series called “Produced on the Prairies” we’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about one of Manitoba’s most important innovations – Canola. The canola crop was bred here at the University of Manitoba and has gone on to become one of the world’s most important crops, because of its versatility and nutritional profile. This oilseed is not only used to produce cooking oil, but it’s used in livestock and pet feed, biofuels, and cosmetics. Innovation in agriculture is not a new story but it’s an exciting one.

At Manitoba Ag Days each year the latest technological advancements are showcased in a competition that highlights innovation in all aspects of the industry. Ellery Burton and his business, Alterra Innovation, launched two products at this year’s show. Grain Tracker is a piece of software that helps farmers physically trace their product from the field to storage bins and then into the market. More and more people want to know where their food comes from, so technology like this allows us to precisely trace every step a product goes through along the way. Technology and innovation impact every part of our lives, and agriculture is no different.

Produced on the Prairies is sponsored in part by Manitoba Ag Days – Canada’s Largest Indoor Farm Show