The National Research Council plans to develop genetically modified wheat in Canada -a measure long resisted by the country's wheat farmers.
The NRC says wheat farmers are becoming less productive and need to adapt, especially in the face of climate change. It suggests GM wheat as a solution.
NRC management has been unveiling its long-term strategy to its researchers and other staff. The goal, says a leaked copy of the plan, is to become a "marketdriven organization whose primary goal is to develop and deploy technology."
And it says building better wheat is one of the top goals.
The Canadian Wheat Board, which represents growers, has opposed GM wheat for years because it is difficult to sell in Asia and Europe. And it disputes the view of its growers as unproductive.
Spokeswoman Maureen Fitzhenry said that "mapping the wheat genome is a worthwhile goal that does not necessarily mean GM varieties. It would be good for plant breeding in all senses."
The full genome of wheat has not been decoded. It is the subject of a massive international effort. But it is still possible for companies to insert one known gene from other plants, such as the pesticide-resistant gene that allows farmers to spray and kill weeds without hurting the wheat.
© Copyright (c) The Province
