Grant: CCI Applied Research and Development Grants

Pulse (legume) crops are important global commodities for nutrition and crop production. The sustainability of cropping systems in Alberta can be improved by increasing diversity and incorporating pulse crops into rotation. Pulses are important in human nutrition as sources of protein, vitamins and minerals, and their ability to fix nitrogen from the air helps reduce fertilizer use. Lupin is an annual grain legume that is widely grown for many uses. Currently about 85% of the world lupin production occurs in Western Australia, whereas other production countries include Europe, Chile and Russia. Lupin is used primarily as animal feed as they are an excellent source of protein for animals, and they contain essential components which enhances animal health and the nutritional value of animal products. There is tremendous potential for lupin in the food industry as well, as ingredients for human consumption, pet food, cosmetics, and industrial use. Introduction of this crop into areas with suitable climatic conditions would create new market opportunities, increase diversification, improve environmental sustainability, support the demand for plant protein, and enhance the competitiveness of the agricultural crop industry. The overall project goal is to provide current, relevant, geographically specific research data needed for farmers to successfully grow lupin across Alberta. Field plot trials will be established in multiple locations across Alberta in order to represent the growing conditions in different soil zones and areas with different rainfall amounts. Five areas of research will be undertaken. 1) New varieties will be acquired from around the world and tested for suitability and success in the selected growing areas. 2) Herbicides, already registered in Canada, will be tested to evaluate lupin tolerance and weed control to improve crop competitiveness. 3) Starter fertilizer and root nodulation enhancers will be tested to improve nitrogen fixation. 4) Herbicide formulation for crop-dry down will be tested to improve harvest management and crop quality. 5) Disease and insect pests will be monitored in research trials and grower fields to monitor the threats of lupin production. The information collected will be extended to the agricultural industry to promote the growth of pulses in Alberta and western Canada through economic growth and diversity.