The Beef Cattle Research Council (BCRC) has announced funding for nine new projects under its 2024 call for proposals, committing $1.43 million to advance research in critical areas of beef production. With additional contributions from other sources, the total investment surpasses $3.1 million, amplifying the impact of producer funding and fostering innovation across the industry.
Prioritizing Research for Industry Growth
Funding decisions are guided by the BCRC’s producer-led council, aligning with priorities set forth in the Canadian Beef Research and Technology Transfer Strategy. This approach ensures that research directly benefits beef producers by addressing industry challenges and improving efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.
Among the key focus areas in this funding round are bovine respiratory disease (BRD) and antimicrobial resistance—both persistent concerns for Canadian beef producers. Understanding the causes and transmission of BRD pathogens, as well as antimicrobial resistance patterns, will help shape future prevention and treatment strategies, ultimately supporting herd health and economic viability.
Additionally, research into animal health, feed efficiency, and food safety will further drive advancements in the beef industry, equipping producers with science-backed solutions to enhance competitiveness and sustainability.
Collaborative Funding and Strategic Partnerships
The 2024 research projects are co-funded with Results Driven Agricultural Research (RDAR), a partnership that maximizes resources and extends the reach of impactful studies. These collaborations emphasize the importance of applied research in informing best management practices and refining industry standards.
Spotlight on the Funded Projects
The newly funded projects encompass a range of critical research topics, including respiratory disease, antimicrobial resistance, feed efficiency, and food safety. The following are the selected projects and their respective leads:
- Understanding Mycoplasma and Respiratory Disease – Dr. Jeff Caswell, University of Guelph
- Investigating Additional Bacteria in BRD and Antimicrobial Resistance – Dr. Tim McAllister, AAFC Lethbridge
- Early Supplementation for Copper Deficiency in Feeder Calves – Dr. Cheryl Waldner, University of Saskatchewan (WCVM)
- Surveillance of Antimicrobial Use and Resistance in Feedlot Cattle – Dr. Sheryl Gow, WCVM/PHAC
- Probiotic Solutions for Enhanced Feed Utilization – Dr. Tim McAllister, AAFC Lethbridge
- Effects of Fibre Digestion on Growth, Methane Emissions, and Carcass Quality – Dr. Gabriel Ribeiro, University of Saskatchewan
- Laser Technology for Rapid Feed Testing – Dr. Nii Patterson, National Resource Council
- Combatting Biofilms for Improved Food Safety – Dr. Kim Stanford, University of Lethbridge
- Augmented Reality for Meat Inspection – Dr. Argenis Rodas-González, University of Manitoba
