Yield and quality of Ontario dry edible beans is the focus of a $334,000 research initiative overseen by the Ontario Coloured Bean Growers Association (OCBGA) in partnership with the Ontario Bean Producers Marketing Board.

This project will receive up to $167, 000 in funding support from the Agricultural Adaptation Council (AAC).

Problem weed control and new pest management research on the potato leafhopper - an insect that injures host plant leaves and stems while feeding - are two significant production challenges in the edible bean industry. Control strategies and accurate economic damage thresholds will be developed and evaluated for their impact in managing the potato leafhopper and problem weeds.

“With the funding support from the AAC, this project is an excellent example of how grower dollars are best spent through the development of emerging trends in pest management that will have a positive impact on crop quality and yield,” says Mike Donnelly, OCBGA Board Director.

The OCBGA is an advocate for approximately 500 growers of all edible bean market classes, except white pea (navy) beans. The association promotes the industry and assists with research initiatives relating to edible bean varieties.

The AAC is a non-profit coalition of 54 agricultural, agri-business and rural organizations working together to support Ontario’s agricultural sector and rural communities. The AAC receives its funding through Ontario’s share of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Canadian Adaptation Rural Development Fund.

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For more information:

Mary Jarvis, Program Coordinator Agricultural Adaptation Council Tel: (519) 822-7554 Mary's e-mail or

Mike Donnelly, Board Member Ontario Coloured Bean Growers Association Tel: (519) 461-1055