Loveleen Kaur Dhillon as its agronomist in residence for special crops at the University of Manitoba (supplied photo/University of Manitoba)

By Alice McFarlane

Filling gaps

University of Manitoba hires first agronomist in residence for special crops

Feb 14, 2025 | 10:28 AM

The University of Manitoba has hired Loveleen Kaur Dhillon as its agronomist in residence for special crops, a new, five-year position funded by Manitoba Crop Alliance (MCA).

MCA recognized a gap in research capacity for crops like corn, sunflower and flax in Manitoba and identified this position as an opportunity to expand applied agronomy research for these crops.

Dhillon has a PhD from the University of Saskatchewan with a specialization in plant breeding and agronomy.

The research will lead to recommendation-based results, addressing agronomic challenges and contributing to the advancement of the special crops industry in Manitoba.

Jonothan Hodson, MCA vice-chair and corn crop committee delegate said they strive to fund meaningful research that advances all the crop types they represent.

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“This can sometimes be difficult for the smaller-acreage crops,” Hodson said. “This position will boost research capacity for these underserved crops and ensure they remain productive and sustainable options for all our farmer members.”

The agronomist in residence for special crops will develop an applied research program focused on identifying best management practices for Manitoba corn, sunflower and flax farmers. They will also communicate research results and increase knowledge transfer between the University of Manitoba and Manitoba’s special crops industry.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

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