Feb. 26, 2026 (Carman, MB; Saskatoon, SK; Calgary, AB) – The Canadian Wheat Research Coalition (CWRC) has completed its review of the Canadian wheat breeding innovation system.

The review, which was conducted by Synthesis Agri-Food Network, featured comprehensive analysis of related reports and studies, as well as interviews with 29 key stakeholders. This process confirmed three crucial facts about the current wheat breeding landscape in Western Canada:

1. The Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) wheat breeding program is an integral part of western Canadian wheat variety development.
2. The current wheat breeding system is at risk from recent and historic budget cuts, especially at the variety development and pre-market evaluation stages.
3. Wheat breeding is a long-term process and decisions made today will impact agriculture decades into the future.

“It’s clear that the status quo is not a viable path forward,” says Jocelyn Velestuk, CWRC chair and a farmer near Broadview, SK. “Our system has been incredibly productive for farmers and for the sector but it’s no longer working. Securing the future of wheat in Canada requires a reimagining of our wheat breeding innovation system.”

The CWRC is currently exploring options to transform Canada’s wheat breeding innovation system. Discussions are underway with AAFC and the CWRC is committed to engaging all stakeholders throughout the process.

Historically, farmer investment in wheat breeding has paid major dividends. Farmers received $33 in benefits for every dollar they invested in wheat breeding from 1995 to 2020, according to a recent study from the University of Saskatchewan. Since 2020, the CWRC has committed $70.5 million to western Canadian wheat breeding programs

“Western Canadian farmers are invested in the future of wheat breeding in Canada,” Velestuk says. “We must create a path forward that addresses research gaps, delivers field-ready varieties and protects our long-term investments.”

Read the full report.

-30-