AgBio News - College of Agriculture and Bioresources

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 fellowship breeds sustainability

The College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (CGPS) is proud to welcome Dr. Salvador Osuna Caballero (B.Sc., M.Sc., PhD) as the 2024 Misiwêskamik International Postdoctoral Fellow. Funded through the University of Saskatchewan's (USask) International Blueprint for Action, this competitive fellowship is intended to bring exceptional international postdoctoral scholars to USask.

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.

USask faculty learned as much from students in sustainability fellowship

Six University of Saskatchewan (USask) faculty fellows each contributed a chapter for a newly released book.

Congress of the International Farm Management Association to convene at the University of Saskatchewan

The International Farm Management Association (IFMA) is pleased to announce that the 24th Congress of the International Farm Management Association will be held in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, July 7-12, 2024.

USask Agros’ Bedpush raises over $98,000 for Telemiracle

Telemiracle 48 earned more than $6.1 million, thanks in part to contributions from students at the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

USask and Métis Nation–Saskatchewan collaborate on climate change mitigation research

The multi-faceted project involved experiential learning for local high school and University of Saskatchewan (USask) students.

Innovative new crop protection developed with USask research

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers are helping protect crops using biologicals as an ecofriendly alternative to synthetic chemicals and GMO solutions.

Indigenous Achievement Week Spotlight: Q & A with Dr. Melissa Arcand

For University of Saskatchewan (USask) soil scientist Dr. Melissa Arcand (PhD), her research is as much about people and communities as it is numbers and data.

USask celebrates students and community in Indigenous Achievement Week

Indigenous Achievement Week from March 5-8 at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), brings together community and celebrates Indigenous students’ achievements, academic excellence, resiliency, and leadership.

Where water meets the field

As the United Nations prepares to spotlight World Water Day on March 22, irrigation and livestock water quality remain among the leading research topics at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Investing in USask’s students and research strengths

A gift of $300,003 from the Samit and Reshma Sharma Foundation will support graduate students pursuing research in infectious diseases and vaccines, water security, and agriculture

Meet Dr. Deborah Adewole: USask’s newest non-ruminant nutritionist

The animal gut, like that of humans, is home to millions of microbes that serve various functions, and the health of an animal’s gut is critical to their overall health.

USask builds new international partnership in Indonesia

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has signed a new five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IPB University in Bogor, Indonesia, to create new opportunities for research collaboration and student learning experiences.

USask pulse research part of $11 million federal investment

The federal government has announced an investment of up to $11,017,979 to Pulse Canada to support key pulse crop research at institutions across the country — including the University of Saskatchewan (USask) — and to drive the pulse industry forward.

USask’s Ag Greenhouse is Bantle’s home away from home

While winter has many of us hibernating, USask greenhouses are full of life.

USask College of Agriculture and Bioresources receives $13.7 for agricultural research

Researchers in the University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Agriculture and Bioresources have received more than $8.9 million from Saskatchewan’s Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) and more than $4.7 million from industry co-funders for crop and livestock research.

Black History Month: USask’s Ugochukwu working towards a food-secure future

Dr. Albert Ugochukwu’s (PhD) journey into the field of agricultural economics was driven by a passion for sustainable development, nurtured by various mentors during his doctoral studies at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Celebrating Black History Month at USask

SASKATOON – Members of the media are invited to attend a special Black History Month launch event at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

USask livestock and forage research receives nearly $6 million

Livestock-focused research projects spearheaded by researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and USask-affiliated centres received almost $6 million from the Agriculture Development Fund (ADF) and are supported by industry co-funders.

USask researcher awarded $4.2 million to battle root rot

The Governments of Saskatchewan and Canada, as well as numerous partners in the agriculture and agri-food industries, have contributed to a multidisciplinary USask-led research project to fight root rot in pea and lentil.

More than $10 million awarded to USask crop research projects

Twenty-nine crop science projects from researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have received a total of close to $7.5 million from the Governments of Canada and Saskatchewan and more than $2.5 million in co-funding from industry partners.

Determining the carbon cost of cattle forage production: USask research

Raising a healthy cattle herd involves providing healthy and abundant plants for cattle to eat, a process called forage production.

USask appoints new lentil and faba bean breeder

Dr. Ana Vargas (PhD) has been appointed as the new lentil and faba bean breeder and an Agri-Food Innovation Fund Chair at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

USask research tackles food insecurity in the community

Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have cooked up a new way to fight local food insecurity in Saskatchewan: a dry soup mix product to be distributed by the Regina Food Bank and the Saskatoon Food Bank & Learning Centre.

USask cattle feed innovations good for the planet and our pockets

By exploring novel treatments to existing agricultural byproducts, University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers are working to establish environmentally sustainable and economically feasible feed alternatives to benefit Saskatchewan producers and consumers alike.

Seeking a holistic understanding of soil health at USask

As the United Nations spotlights World Soil Day on Dec. 5, University of Saskatchewan researchers are investigating soil emissions, soil properties, and how to measure them.

New horizons

New Associate Dean Academic Tom Yates plans to enhance connections with First Nations and promote industry collaboration/professionalism.

Gaining land management knowledge supports community

Earning the Kanawayihetaytan Askiy Certificate at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) helped Melissa MacDonald grow into her position as Land Director for the Membertou First Nation.

Flaman and BoMill change the game in seed research

Flaman donates innovative technology to AgBio to improve seed sorting.

Scaling up Saskatchewan’s potential

Edgar Martinez used AgBio’s Bioprocessing Pilot Plant for his graduate program. Now he’s running the show.

A life in wheat

As Dr. Pierre Hucl (PhD) steps down as a Strategic Research Program (SRP) chair, he reflects on the evolution of wheat breeding in Canada and looks ahead to a bright future.

Braiding Indigenous and Western knowledge

Newly opened in July 2023, the focus of the kihci-okâwîmâw askiy Knowledge Centre is on taking care of Mother Earth.

WGRF Integrated Agronomy Chair focuses on sustainable cropping systems

“We try things that people are thinking about but perhaps not trying themselves.” – Dr. Maryse Bourgault (PHD)

Wild rice research puts Indigenous communities at the forefront

Understanding wild rice diversity isn’t just about crop improvement, it’s also about respecting and empowering Indigenous communities.

Tackling challenges with feedlot nutrition

USask graduate student Catherine Seidle adapts dairy-industry solution to discourage feed sorting by feedlot cattle.

Cultivating a rewarding career that started at USask

Alumna Kaitlin Kelly (BScRRM’14, MSc‘16) says majoring in Resource Economics and Policy was one of the best decisions she’s made.

A legacy that will live on for generations

A land donation from Joan Snyder leads to new opportunities for AgBio.

Shedding light on soil properties

USask graduate student research looks at advanced technologies to analyze and map soil properties.

SaskBarley announces 2023/24 scholarship recipients

SaskBarley is proud to announce that the University of Saskatchewan’s Jenna Salmon, Ashlyn Mooney, Catherine Seidle, Suma Ghosh and Nathan Gyan have been selected as the recipients of the 2023/24 scholarship funds.

GIFS at USask partnership receives $56 million commitment for Bangladesh agtech centre

A research and training initiative launched by the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) and the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) of the Ministry of Agriculture in Bangladesh has received a $56.2 million commitment from the Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh.

USask strengthens research partnerships with University of Bonn

A delegation from the University of Saskatchewan (USask) travelled to the University of Bonn (UBonn) in Germany as part of an ongoing commitment to develop joint research projects between the institutions.

The toxin detectives at the University of Saskatchewan

When coho salmon in the Pacific Northwest came floating downstream belly up after waiting for rainfall that would enable them to swim to their spawning grounds, scientists were puzzled. The cause for this mass mortality event was not immediately obvious – and the resulting uncertainty hampered mitigation efforts.

AgBio graduate explores soil health and legume biodiversity

Warren McAuley’s thesis research focused on how the inclusion of faba beans within an intercrop can increase soil health indicators.

USask environmental science graduate discovers career path in Canada’s boreal forest

Tori Redman grew up in the Midwest suburbs of the United States but always knew she would attend her parents’ alma mater, the University of Saskatchewan.

USask announces new admission pathway for the Indigenous Lands Governance and Indigenous Resource Management diplomas

Students can now enter the diplomas in the Kanawayihetaytan Askiy program directly from high school.

USask students gain global perspectives in Japan horticulture field course

The AGRC 311 Northeastern Japan Horticulture Study Tour provides students with a once in a lifetime experiential, engaged learning opportunity.

USask researcher developing stronger understanding of soil nutrients

Just like humans, plants need nutrients to survive and grow, and many of these nutrients are important compounds found in soil. A University of Saskatchewan (USask) researcher is exploring how phosphorus, an important nutrient for humans and plants, reacts with mineral compounds and how these reactions can impact how well phosphorus is used in soil.

New centre at USask honours Indigenous connection to the land

Guided by Indigenous peoples, the new kihci-okâwîmâw askiy (Great Mother Earth in Plains Cree) Knowledge Centre at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) serves as a resource for Indigenous communities and organizations seeking land-related information, training, and research partnerships.

Week of Reflection

Against the background of the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) traditional hues of green and white, orange stands out as a vitally important and powerfully symbolic colour for Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Its meaning is especially clear as we begin a Week of Reflection leading up to the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation on Sept. 30.