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Meeting the demand for grown-in-Ontario fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes involves more than putting seeds in the ground—it takes scientific expertise in breeding, genetics, biotechnology and more—specialities that are highly concentrated at the University of Guelph, Canada’s top agricultural university. Meet some of the U of G researchers who are experts in plant breeders and livestock genetics, all working to bring fresh, Ontario produce to market: 

PVY is one of the most economically significant diseases for Canadian potato farmers – and it’s especially challenging for seed growers, who are required to keep PVY levels under a very low threshold. A team of Canadian scientists that includes U of G professor Dr.

Drs. Hrvoje Fabek and Daniel Onwude bring complementary expertise that spans nutrition science, food structure, advanced processing technologies and computational modeling. Their work will support the development of healthier foods, reduce food loss and waste, and help train the next generation of food science professionals.

In her exploration of farmer mental health, Dr.

More than 30 University of Guelph research projects are moving forward, applying the University’s leading expertise to power agri-food innovation and grow economic resilience in Ontario.

The $6.92-million public investment is delivered through the Ontario Agri-Food Innovation Alliance, a collaboration between the Government of Ontario and the University of Guelph that drives innovation and independence in Ontario’s agri-food sector.

The Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) says the asparagus available in stores now is the first real sign that Ontario's local food season is underway. Ontario is Canada’s leading asparagus producing region, and most Ontario asparagus grows in Norfolk County.

Asparagus is produced in multiple varieties developed for Canadian growing conditions, and the crop has also been optimized to improve yields in the face of unpredictable weather. Many farms grow modern, all-male hybrid varieties like Millennium asparagus, developed at the University of Guelph.

The University of Guelph has appointed Dr. Mazyar Fallah as vice-president (research and innovation). Currently dean of the College of Biological Science, he brings extensive experience in research leadership, partnerships and advancing interdisciplinary collaboration across the University.

Ontario farmers rely on tile drainage to manage stormwater and improve productivity on cropland. But as pressure mounts on agriculture from population growth, climate-driven water scarcity and a general strain on food systems, University of Guelph researcher Dr.

Decades after navigating the commercialization process for the first time, University of Guelph professor Dr. Bonnie Mallard reflects on how industry partnerships and commercialization programming help bring new ideas to the global market.

The journey of High Immune Response (HIR) technology from idea to commercial impact took decades and relied on a portfolio of funding and services to bring the multi-million-dollar idea to market. 

Known for his dedication to teaching, research, and community engagement, delivered his final lecture in April. Throughout his career, Weersink blended real farm experience with academic insight. Raised on a family farm, he brought a practical understanding of agriculture into classrooms and research projects. Read more on Farms.com: Alfons Weersink- From Farm Roots to Academic Excellence.