A new $15.5 million beef research facility is being built by the University of Guelph near Elora.
Representatives from the university along with Beef Farmers of Ontario and the provincial and federal governments broke ground at the site of the future facility on July 6.
The new Livestock Research and Innovation Centre – Beef Facility will replace the beef facilities at the Elora Research Station that were built in 1969. The work is expected to be complete by the end of 2018. The facility is down the road from the university’s new dairy research facility that opened in June 2015.
Malcolm Campbell, U of G’s vice president of research, thanked both the federal and provincial governments for their contribution. The facility is a joint partnership between the university, the province, Agriculture Research Institute of Ontario, Beef Farmers of Ontario and the federal government.
Jeff Leal, Ontario Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, announced the provincial government will invest $12.4 million into building the new facility.
“The new research centre will be a wonderful catalyst for growth in Ontario’s agri-food sector, strengthening our competitiveness both domestically and internationally, creating jobs and playing an important role in transferring knowledge to our producers ensuring success,” he said.
The centre will be used to enhance genetic profiling of cow herds and improve feed efficiency. It will also allow researchers to improve best practices for efficient and sustainable beef production.
Canada’s Agriculture and Agri-food Minister Lawrence MacAulay announced the federal government’s contribution of $2 million.
“Your work here in Elora is helping to keep our beef industry innovative and competitive,” he said
“The investment will support research in different ways producers can manage their cattle and cut their feeding costs and keep more money in their pockets.”
Beef Farmers of Ontario president Joe Hill also spoke at the announcement, added the facility will advance beef cattle research, allowing farmers to stay competitive in the global market.
