Quebec agriculture is transforming, Montérégie crops are diversifying
In Montérégie, FoodBridge’s projects are gradually taking shape to support sustainable agricultural practices and diversify the landscape of large-scale crops. Through a series of pilot projects, producers and partners are collaborating to advance the production of malting barley, local oils, pumpkin seeds and winter hybrid rye. Each project aims to address specific challenges related to food autonomy, soil regeneration and economic opportunities for producers.
Malting barley: supporting the microbrewing quality sector
In Montérégie, malting barley offers promising potential for crop diversification and improved soil health. This project currently focuses on establishing a cohort of malting barley producers who can grow high-quality grain that meets Quebec microbrewery standards. Not only does this initiative promote sustainable farming practices but it also aims to strengthen connections between producers and processors in the brewing sector. Additionally, it seeks to understand and address current challenges for producers, including the adoption of optimized post-harvest techniques. As a major cereal-growing region, Montérégie is paving the way for new development opportunities, creating local demand for quality barley while reducing dependence on imports.
Montérégie oils: highlighting the potential of local oilseeds
The market for locally processed oils in Quebec is expanding. Montérégie producers, with support from FoodBridge, are exploring opportunities with crops such as organic sunflower and camelina. The project aims to establish a regional supply chain for high-quality oils by developing tailored marketing tools and facilitating meetings between producers and buyers. This approach creates value-added opportunities for the region. In parallel, the project involves recruiting ambassador companies to raise awareness among restaurants and retailers about the benefits of local oils.
Pumpkin seeds: a first step towards profitable and sustainable production
For the past four years, Ferme de l’Odyssée has cultivated pumpkin seeds, which are primarily marketed by the food company Prana. Currently, ten producers in Montérégie and Centre-du-Québec are growing test plots of pumpkin seeds, aiming to increase profitability and collect data on this niche crop. The project focuses on yield analysis and the assessment of regenerative agricultural practices. By highlighting technical and economic challenges, this initiative seeks to determine whether pumpkin seeds can become a profitable crop. The growing demand for quality, local and sustainable products is driving the development of new marketing channels to meet consumer expectations.
Winter hybrid rye: a new option for animal feed
In parallel, a fourth project is emerging around winter hybrid rye, which is being positioned as a sustainable alternative to corn for pig feed. This initiative aims to demonstrate the potential of the crop’s agro-environmental benefit swhile studying its economic impact on cereal producers. To this end, the project team will conduct a life cycle analysis of rye and document successful practices from Germany. Activities will include creating informational videos and hosting conferences to communicate the benefits of rye to Quebec producers.
These projects show that, with proper support and strategic partnerships, it is possible to strengthen resilient local agriculture in Montérégie. By implementing regenerative practices and diversifying crops, the region’s producers are actively contributing to the future of sustainable agriculture in Quebec.