Magazine Celebrates OMAFRA Partnership
September 18, 2009 - Campus Bulletin
A special "Agri-Food Yearbook" edition of U of G's Research magazine has just been published, highlighting the advancements made possible by the partnership between the University and the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA).
The 30-page magazine was written by past and present students involved in U of G's Students Promoting Awareness of Research Knowledge (SPARK) program, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary.
The issue includes articles and information about the research and services provided through the partnership, as well as how it will help Ontario build its position as a leader in agricultural innovation.
"The people of Ontario have benefited over the years from our partnership with OMAFRA in critical ways," says Rich Moccia, associate vice-president (research) agri-food and partnerships.
"It has resulted in research breakthroughs, a safer food supply, improved disease monitoring and prevention, and new products and technology. It will continue to be fundamental to the future of the province's agri-food industry."
U of G and OMAFRA first entered into an enhanced partnership agreement in 1997, and it was renewed and improved in 2008. Under the agreement, the University manages research and education programs and related facilities, including three regional campuses at Alfred, Ridgetown and Kemptville and 13 off-campus research facilities, supported through an annual allocation from the Ontario government.
The partnership has garnered tremendous social, economic, environmental and health benefits for the industry and province, returning more than $1.15 billion to the Ontario economy annually, according to an independent economic analysis by Deloitte and Touche LLP. Specifically, it returns $3 for every $1 invested by the government.
The agri-food yearbook is available online or in the Office of Research.
