About CSIDC

Specialty/Horticultural Crops

In 1992, emphasis was placed on potato and vegetable crop production. This was in response to industry demand. The potato studies involve a wide range of agronomic research to produce high quality ‘seed’, ‘processing’ and ‘table’ potato. The tests include germplasm evaluation, fertility management, irrigation scheduling, plant population studies and harvest management. The vegetable work is designed to raise awareness of the opportunities that exist in the vegetable industry. This is accomplished by developing cost of production suited for Saskatchewan and by demonstrating improved production techniques to increase yield and improve quality, thereby improving economic returns.

Field crops (cereals, oilseeds and forages) are a major part of the irrigated rotation. In 1996, more than 90% of the irrigated acreage in Saskatchewan was planted to field crops. While it is desirable to introduce new and specialty crops, a priority must also be placed on improving the profitability of the more conventional field crops. This includes examining new and existing varieties with improved disease and lodging tolerance suited to irrigated conditions or with novel quality traits which could service a niche market. Suitable varieties must be identified and tested for agronomic performance under irrigated conditions. Evaluations of agronomic factors which can lead to more efficient water use, increased production or lower input costs must also be determined.

Environmental Sustainability

Market Analysis

Technology Transfer

Field Demonstrations

Facilities

The land base includes 72 ha (180 acres) on-site utilizing a range of irrigation methods and types of equipment. The Centre is well equipped with overhead sprinkler and drip irrigation equipment designed for replicated trials, for water management studies, and for irrigation application efficiency work. Control of individual nozzle heads is available on several irrigation systems at the Centre. Water is supplied to the Centre by a computer-controlled underground pressurized supply sytem.

An off-station satellite site provides an additional 52 ha (130 acres) of center pivot irrigated land available for small plot work and large-scale demonstrations.

Soil and water quality studies are supported by basic laboratory equipment including conductance meters and drying ovens. Automated water sampling equipment is also on site. Environment Canada operates a fully equipped automated weather station at the Centre. A new potato/vegetable storage and lab facility provides state-of-the-art storage facilities for potato, and a humidity and temperature controlled filacell storage for vegetable crops. The building houses a potato handling and grading area, and a full size laboratory. The lab contains the equipment necessary for assessing the baking, boiling, chipping, and frying qualities of potato.

A fully functional greenhouse is available for year-round operation. Fitted with 95 m² of growing area, the greenhouse is ideal for starting transplants and evaluating year round production of selected horticultural crops. It is equipped with hydroponics, and an automated watering system.

The office facility, constructed in 1994, combines office space, a conference room, and laboratory space. Lab equipment includes steam distillation equipment, and a gas chromatograph.

The grounds are spacious and well maintained. They are suitable for hosting large tour groups, trade shows, and special events.