AgBio News - College of Agriculture and Bioresources

Asian Heritage Month: Profile of CJ Manning

USask Food Science MSc student and proud Filipino Canadian.

Asian Heritage Month: From the Philippines to Saskatoon, USask plant scientist grows connections

College of Agriculture and Bioresources researcher celebrates 30 years at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

USask recognizes Asian Heritage Month

Recognized nationwide, May is Asian Heritage Month. This month honours the legacy and contributions of members of the Asian communities that span East Asia, South East Asia, South Asia, Western Asia, and Central Asia.

Experiential learning blooms in USask landscape design course

The Campus to Creation student garden made its inaugural debut at Gardenscape 2025.

USask students leading the charge for sustainable solutions

Undergraduate students from the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, the School of Environment and Sustainability (SENS), and the College of Arts and Sciences will be presenting their capstone projects at the annual Sustainability Trade Show on April 1 in the Agriculture Building Atrium.

USask data-driven anthropology research project receives international acclaim

As modern development spreads across Canada, First Nations in the Peace River region of British Columbia and Alberta require unbiased, data-driven research to maintain their Treaty-protected cultural and economic traditions.

Cutting-edge USask chickpea research thrives through cold temperatures

Amid the snow and the slush of frigid Saskatchewan winters, one place on the University of Saskatchewan (USask) campus always remains warm and green: the greenhouses.

Exploring the intersection of climate change, water security and gender equity

USask professor and researcher Dr. Sabine Liebenehm (PhD) makes international connections to find solutions to complex, interrelated problems.

USask makes top 100 in two subjects in world university rankings

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has established itself among the best universities in the world and has been ranked in the top 100 worldwide in two subject areas.

USask graduate student’s startup wins big at Opus Innovation Expo

A University of Saskatchewan (USask)-led business focused on plant-based products brings home this year’s coveted People’s Choice Award.

USask researcher imagines a greener future with sustainable fertilizers

To feed the growing global population, crop producers need to first feed the plants that are the foundation of our food supply.

USask student strives for wildlife conservation that upholds Indigenous voices

Kim Lebel honoured for academic excellence during Indigenous Achievement Week.

USask industry chair to advance forage research

In a move to strengthen research into crucial livestock production systems, Dr. Flavia van Cleef (PhD) has been appointed as the new Beef Industry Integrated Forage Management and Utilization (IFMU) Chair at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Young Innovators: USask researchers ‘dig deep’ to address heavy metal contamination in Canada’s boreal forest

The open expanse of Saskatchewan’s Prairie landscape quietly recedes into a thick band of spruce, pine and fir trees only a few hours’ drive north of the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) campus. Stretching for more than 400,000 km2, the province’s boreal forest is just a snapshot of a large network of trees and hardy plants that reach across the entire country.

USask College of Agriculture and Bioresources research receives $8-million boost

Researchers in the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Agriculture and Bioresources have received more than $5.1 million from Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) and more than $2.9 million from industry co-funders for crop and livestock research.

Celebrating women in science: A look inside the labs of USask researchers

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is celebrated annually on February 11 and promotes gender equality in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math). For this year, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is celebrating researchers who are making great advancements in their field and forging a path for the next generation of scientists.

USask graduate student getting to the root of chickpeas

As the United Nations prepares to celebrate World Pulses Day on Feb. 10, USask international graduate student Ifedolapo Adebara is investigating the variability of the often-understudied pulse crop’s roots, and whether its special fungus resistance could improve pea and lentil yields.

Nutrien supports Be What the World Needs Campaign with transformational $15 million donation to USask

Nutrien’s purpose is to Feed the Future. The University of Saskatchewan (USask) aspires to Be What the World Needs. By joining forces on new projects, these ambitious organizations will advance sustainable agriculture around the globe and help train the scientists and engineers of the future. 

Black History Month at USask

Black History Month is a time for the University of Saskatchewan to learn about members of the Black community, and to celebrate their stories, legacies and contributions to Saskatchewan and Canada.

New USask crop research chair receives Sask Wheat support

The Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission (Sask Wheat) has committed $6.5 million to support the establishment of the Saskatchewan Wheat Development Commission Applied Genomics and Pre-breeding Chair at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Collaborative USask research exploring yeast genetics for better chicken feed

A team of multidisciplinary University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers has hatched an innovative project to improve the health of chickens by upgrading the feed that they eat.

Diverse USask livestock research projects receive government support

Livestock and forage research at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) takes a variety of forms, and new government and industry funding will help support cutting-edge livestock research across campus.

CWRC commits $11.8 million to USask Crop Development Centre

The Canadian Wheat Research Coalition (CWRC) has committed $11.8 million over the next five years to a core breeding agreement (CBA) with the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) Crop Development Centre (CDC).

USask explores innovative soil carbon mapping research

When it comes to crop production, soil is vital for plant health, nutrient supply and water retention. Today, two soil science projects dedicated to the future of mapping carbon levels in Saskatchewan soil have received support from a major government fund, allowing researchers to create a better roadmap of soil health for the province’s producers.

USask crop research projects receive lion’s share of ADF funding

Twenty-three crop and cropland-focused research projects at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have received $4.18 million in support from the provincial government through the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF).

Bringing more technology to ranch country

Seasoned USask researcher believes more genomics intelligence would greatly benefit cow-calf producers.

USask weed control research receives funding from Saskatchewan Pulse Growers

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher Dr. Steve Shirtliffe (PhD) has received $2.47 million to develop a weed management program for pulses.

USask researchers shining a light on soil fertility

As the University of Saskatchewan (USask) joins the United Nations in observing World Soil Day on Dec. 5, College of Agriculture and Bioresources researchers are investigating the use of spectroscopy for soil testing.

Four USask educators recognized for heightening student experiences

Lieutenant Governor’s Post-Secondary Teaching Award winners selected from across campus.

Insights on what makes cows efficient, allowing better decision-making on farms

An impressive array of tools – from data analytics and precision agriculture to livestock vaccines, crop development, genomic selection and more – is ushering in the future of farming.

Unlocking the ‘genetic magic’ of beef cattle

The next phase of a University of Saskatchewan (USask) research initiative aims to sequence the entire genome of beef cattle for the selection of optimum physical and behavioural traits and create a Canadian genetic database — two ambitious goals that will have a significant impact on the country’s beef cattle industry.

A new way to farm: Precision agriculture redefines research and technology

From using satellites thousands of kilometres above the Earth’s surface to examining chemical compositions in soils and plants, the goal of precision agriculture boils down to one word: efficiency.

Groundbreaking research with global impact

USask’s Poultry Centre has helped improve industry standards across the world.

Planned gift with deep roots in AgBio

Although still in the prime of their lives, Mike Solohub (BSc’88, BSA’92, MSc’97) and Dr. Colleen Christensen (BSc’93, PhD’99) have laid the groundwork to ensure they can support future generations of graduate students in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Raising the bar for the livestock industry

USask alumnus Dr. Tyson Buyer (BSA’12, DVM’16) started his business to help bring breeders together.

Meet the new meat

Surveys say novel hybrid products created at USask taste great.

Tackling the science of aging well

USask PhD student and Vanier Scholar Morgan Fleming is exploring how a component of plant-based foods might help you live longer.

Activating genomics to accelerate climate-smart crop delivery

How crop rotation options offered by new climate-smart varieties will create economic and environmental gains.

Fish, canola, and the future of aquaculture

USask graduate student research investigates canola meal as sustainable fish meal alternative.

An outsider’s perspective

USask professor brings fresh approach to economics research and teaching.

Giving care to Saskatchewan’s most ancient landscapes

For alumna Hillary Kyplain (BScRRM‘22), a conservation co-ordinator for Métis Nation-Saskatchewan, protecting the Muskeg is more than just a job.

USask makes strides in international subject rankings

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has ranked in the top 100 universities in the world in four subject areas, according to a recent publication.

Prairie Horticulture Certificate celebrates 30th anniversary

November 2024 marks 30 years of this one-of-a-kind distance education program developed specifically for the Prairies.

USask graduate connects education to career in real time

Damien Georges’ environmental science career started during his undergraduate degree.

USask graduate explores link between swine welfare and environmental enrichment

Abby Tillotson’s thesis research focused on effective environmental enrichment for swine that benefits producers.

USask blanket project honours children who never made it home

When Le Estcwicwéý (the missing)* were located at Tk’emlúps Residential School in Kamloops, B.C., Donna van de Velde was moved to action.

USask announces new micro-credentials in sustainable irrigation

Two new micro-credentials at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) provide professionals the opportunity to gain knowledge in water management and irrigation agronomy.

Hidden threat: New USask research looks to improve food safety

Foodborne pathogens, like Salmonella, are a threat to food safety and can have harmful effects when contaminated food is consumed. As the new Agriculture and Agri-Food Innovation Chair in Applied Microbiology at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), Dr. Kaidi Wang (PhD) is looking to understand how foodborne pathogens survive in harsh environments, and how to effectively monitor and eliminate them.

Week of Reflection

Canada’s 4th National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR) is September 30th. The University of Saskatchewan observes the week before NDTR as the Week of Reflection.

USask’s cutting-edge soil science laboratory receives $760K

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has received more than three quarters of a million dollars to conduct soil research more quickly, efficiently and with greater detail than ever before.

Young Innovators: USask researchers 'beefing' up cattle with affordable, drought-proof diet

Creating a high nutritional value diet that keeps beef cattle fed during challenging years is the focus of University of Saskatchewan (USask) research.

USask Giving Day to drive support for key campaign pillars

For Krunal Chavda, Giving Day is personal.

PATH TO PARIS: USask graduates climb Paralympic podium

University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduates Shelby Newkirk and Julie Kozun had medal moments to last a lifetime on the final weekend of the Paris Paralympics.

Award-winning entrepreneur looks back on USask education

Saskatoon-based businessperson Lester Lafond (Agric’74, BA’82), a member of the Muskeg Lake Cree Nation, studied agriculture and economics at the University of Saskatchewan

USask researchers explore sustainable solutions for farmers

With access to more than 800,000 acres of crop yield data from farmers’ combines, Dr. Christy Morrissey (PhD) and her colleagues are looking to find sustainable solutions that will benefit both producers and the Prairie ecosystem.

USask and Thunderchild First Nation sign MOU celebrating collaboration

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is coming together with Thunderchild First Nation to further define and enhance their relationship and collaborate on common interests such as mentorship, research, and supporting Indigenous youth.

USask AgBio, Mistawasis Nêhiyawak sign research collaboration agreement

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Agriculture and Bioresources (AgBio) and the First Nation of Mistawasis Nêhiyawak have signed an Asota, a Cree word which translates to “Make a Promise.”

‘My USask education inspired me to give back’

University of Saskatchewan graduate Alishia Beach (AGRN’18, BSc’20) is making a difference by serving on the Senate

USask agriculture, environmental sustainability projects receive Canadian Space Agency funding

Two innovative University of Saskatchewan (USask) research projects have received funding from the Canadian Space Agency (CSA) to use satellite technology for detailed mapping and analysis of the Earth’s surface.

From Saskatchewan to the world

USask graduates John Cote (BSA’86) and Barb Stefanyshyn-Cote (BSA’87, MSc’94) are attracting global attention with award-winning spirits produced at Black Fox Farm and Distillery

PATH TO PARIS: AgBio alum Kozun serves up spot in Paralympics

Every Paralympian has a story, with the few first chapters often dealing with the mental health challenges as well as the physical, after a life-changing incident.

Thousands of jobs and billions of dollars attributed to USask’s Crop Development Centre

A glowing new assessment report of the Crop Development Centre (CDC) at the University of Saskatchewan highlights the centre’s tremendous economic impact, including thousands of jobs and billions of dollars for Canada.

USask graduate grateful for experiences as a Schulich Leader

Olivia Stewart (BSA’24), who received a Schulich Leader Scholarship in 2020, graduated from USask with a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture degree (honours) during Spring Convocation in June 2024

USask establishes Jarislowsky and BMO Chair in Regenerative Agriculture

Dr. Kate Congreves (PhD) has been appointed the Jarislowsky and BMO Chair in Regenerative Agriculture at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) to lead research supporting the wider-scale adoption of beneficial production and environmental practices necessary for food security.

Celebrating outstanding teaching: Q & A with Dr. Natacha Hogan

For Dr. Natacha Hogan (PhD), some of the most gratifying moments of teaching are when she can get her students excited about science and they are able to connect what they learn to real-world challenges and their solutions.

Six must-do activities with the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at Ag in Motion

Discover the latest research and hands-on learning to Grow Your Future!

USask professor emeritus to be inducted into Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame

Dr. Bruce Coulman (PhD), a University of Saskatchewan (USask) alumnus and professor emeritus in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources will be inducted into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame for his significant contribution to Canadian agriculture.

USask College of AgBio research projects receive more than $1.6 million in NSERC funding

Eight researchers in the USask College of Agriculture and Bioresources (AgBio) received more than $1.6 million in funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grants program.

USask honours 2024 teaching award winners

Teaching excellence at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) will be celebrated on June 18 as part of the USask Staff and Faculty Awards event.

USask honours President’s Staff Excellence Award recipients

The recipients of this year’s President’s Staff Excellence Award at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are an AgBio lab manager whose proactive approach to seek out impactful collaborations on campus has brought widespread benefits, and a team leader whose steadfast support has significantly contributed to the success of students and faculty in the department of Computer Science.

Ask the Alumni Expert: Alan Weninger (BSc’87)

USask graduate Alan Weninger, arborist for Patterson Gardens, talks about his favourite trees and shares his planting tips for the spring season.

Precision nutrition for dairy cattle: Can robots help?

And why is this question important to producers in Canada and beyond? For World Milk Day on June 1, we get answers from a University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher.

‘Truly memorable’: New USask alumni reflect on their academic journeys

Spring Convocation ceremonies will be held from June 3 – 7 at Merlis Belsher Place.

Spud-tacular innovation: USask PhD student investigates nutrient-efficient potato varieties

The United Nations has designated May 30 as the International Day of Potato to raise awareness of the potato as an invaluable food resource.

USask recognizes Pride Month

Each June, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) community gathers to recognize and celebrate Pride, something we strive to do throughout the year.

Trio of USask graduate students receive prestigious Vanier Scholarships

Morgan Fleming, a PhD student in the College of Agriculture and Bioresources, is one of three USask graduate students to have received funding to support innovation in diverse fields of English literature, community air quality, and plant and nutrition genetics.

Alumni Book Nook: William R. Schroeder (BSA’76, MSc’83)

Scientist and entrepreneur William R. Schroeder is the author of "Trees Against the Wind: The Birth of Prairie Shelterbelts"

USask’s new Precision Agriculture Certificate celebrates its first cohort of graduates

Fourteen students including Alex Hinz are graduating with the new certificate at USask Spring Convocation.

Producer Day at the Congress of the International Farm Management Association

Join us at the University of Saskatchewan on Wed. July 10 during the weeklong International Farm Management (IFMA24) Congress, for sessions focusing on farm, business strategies and personal resilience.

‘A really cool map’ – providing tools for farmers, plant breeders and policymakers

Imagine a map of every field under agricultural production across Western Canada, showing detailed information about what crops are currently grown and whether they represent an optimal use for local conditions.

USask MSc student awarded Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Indigenous Scholarship

Jeremy Irvine, a MSc student at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Agriculture and Bioresources, is the recipient of the $20,000 Saskatchewan Lieutenant Governor Indigenous Scholarship.

USask graduate thrives in Kanawayihetaytan Askiy program

Oralie George completed the Kanawayihetaytan Askiy Certificate while maintaining her professional career in Ontario.

Agriculture Student Scholarship recipients announced in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan students pursuing a post-secondary education in agriculture were awarded scholarships from the federal and provincial governments.

USask agriculture research receives $25 million boost from Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan

The federal and provincial governments have announced an investment of $25 million for continued support of 15 strategic research chairs at the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Agriculture and Bioresources through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership.

Asian Heritage Month: Forage breeder a research leader at USask

Growing up on the Mongolian Plateau, Dr. Bill Biligetu (PhD) has seen first-hand the effect climate change can have on grasslands. As the Ministry of Agriculture Strategic Research Program (SRP) Chair in Forage Crop Breeding at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), Biligetu is breeding resilient forage varieties adapted for stressful environments.

Nine USask faculty members named distinguished professors

College of Agriculture and Bioresources professor, Dr. Jill Hobbs (PhD), has been awarded the honorary title of distinguished professor in recognition of exceptional achievements in research, scholarly, and artistic work.

Celebrating Asian Heritage Month at USask

As the month of May begins, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) commemorates the nationally recognized Asian Heritage Month, honouring the legacy, contributions, and stories of members of the diverse Asian communities on our campuses and beyond.

Wrapping it up sustainably

USask researchers investigate pulse proteins to replace petroleum in packaging

Vimy Ridge Day: Honouring the sacrifice of soldiers from USask

It was one of the defining moments in Canadian military history, with students and staff from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) among those who made the ultimate sacrifice during the Battle of Vimy Ridge.

USask announces 2024 Images of Research contest winners

For the 10th year in a row, University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers, scholars and artists have showcased the impact of their work using the power of photography. The results are nothing short of amazing and provide an inside look into the beautiful world of research.