U of S phytotron gets huge boost

The controlled environment plant growth facility enables research to be conducted under controlled environments year-round. It allows three cropping cycles in one year - something that is particularly important for the work of the Crop Development Centre.
New highly efficient lighting systems, new computer controls and a new chiller system will make the phytotron an efficient, state of the art facility.
The renewed chambers produce light intensities much closer to sunlight resulting in more vigorous and healthier plants, while at the same time using less energy. These chambers will be capable of creating both high and freezing temperatures, which is imperative to the study of the effects of heat, drought, frost resistance and extreme cold on plant growth.
"Our Government understands that investments in agricultural innovation create new crops for Canadian farmers, and help to strengthen our economy," said Minister Ritz. "That's why we are proud to be supporting the phytotron and the important research it facilitates."
"The work done at the phytotron is an important part of our success in agricultural research and production," Bjornerud said. "We are pleased to provide this funding, which will result in new crop varieties that benefit our producers."
"We are deeply grateful for our governments' investments in the phytotron, which has been critically important in the development of so many innovations in plant growth and environmental management," said Dean Mary Buhr, College of Agriculture and Bioresources. "The producers, who are also our partners, and the world's consumers will directly benefit as we now rapidly lead the way into the bioeconomy of the future."
For more information, contact:
Kira Paluck
Communications Co-ordinator
College of Agriculture and Bioresources
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-6873
kira.paluck@usask.ca