A new canola seed production facility has opened in Cranbrook this fall.
Officials with Bayer said their new facility held a grand opening event on Sept 20th, with representatives from the Ktunaxa Nation, local government, Cranbrook Chamber of Commerce and strategic partners.
“We are proud of the fact that virtually all canola parent seed grown for Bayer and its seed partners originates from this production site,” said Joerg Lehmann, Bayer’s Cranbrook Site Lead. “This was an important step to ensure Bayer can continue to supply top quality canola seed to farmers in Canada and the US.”
The company started canola seed production in the Kootenays in 1996.
Officials said the unique geography, climate, and remote field locations allow Bayer to isolate canola seeds and improve quality for farmers.
“We invested in the site because we believe Bayer can provide farmers with innovative, industry-leading Canola technology and products,” said Al Driver, Country Division Head of Crop Science. “With 22 million acres in Canada, canola has established itself as the largest crop in the Canadian prairies, and we need to keep up to the demand.”
The company said the Cranbrook site has 15 year-round employees and up to eight more seasonal employees in the summer.
“Roles include seed technicians, production managers, safety and quality technicians, and operations coordinators,” said officials.