A new greenhouse at the New Liskeard Agricultural Research Station is expected to help further the study of the growth of raspberries and strawberries in Northern Ontario.
The research station received $11,434 for the purchase of a 26-metre by 20-metre high tunnel, a type of greenhouse that is used to extend the growing season and increase the variety of crops that can be grow in an area.
Used in Europe over the last 15 years, proponents of high tunnels believe they could extend the season, giving producers in Northern Ontario a longer picking period.
The money came from the NOHFC's Emerging Technology Program.
"This funding will help the New Liskeard station continue to play an important role in horticultural research into a variety of crops that could lead to a further diversification of our northern farm businesses and support jobs,” said Michael Gravelle, minister of northern development, mines and forestry, and chair of the NOHFC, in a press release.
By studying the growth of raspberries and strawberries in Northern Ontario, the research station is hoping to extend the northern farm business sector, while creating one new job and maintaining two existing jobs.
"Agriculture is the economic mainstay of many communities across Northern Ontario,” Timiskaming-Cochrane MPP David Ramsay said in the release. “By helping improve and expand knowledge of the growing season, we are strengthening the sustainability and long-term future of our farms and jobs in the North."
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