Governor Gianforte Celebrates Innovation in Agriculture – State of Montana Newsroom (.gov)

Governor Greg Gianforte and BASF Agricultural Solutions Introduce Innovative Canola Seed in Montana

Introduction of InVigor Gold Canola Seed

On June 27, 2025, Governor Greg Gianforte joined BASF Agricultural Solutions in Great Falls, Montana, to unveil a new canola seed variety, InVigor Gold, aimed at advancing agricultural innovation and supporting local farmers. This initiative aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production).

Significance of Agriculture in Montana

• Agriculture is Montana’s leading industry, with a rich history of contributing to global food security.
• The introduction of InVigor Gold supports the ongoing demand for sustainable agricultural products.
• Governor Gianforte emphasized the role of innovation and farmer dedication in advancing the sector.

Features and Benefits of InVigor Gold

InVigor Gold represents a breakthrough in canola seed technology with the following attributes:

1. Heat tolerance to withstand hotter and drier climates.
2. Inherent pod shatter resistance to reduce crop loss.
3. Strong resistance to blackleg disease, enhancing crop health.

These features contribute to SDG 13 (Climate Action) by promoting resilience to climate change impacts and SDG 15 (Life on Land) by supporting sustainable land use.

BASF’s Commitment to Agricultural Innovation

• BASF has been a leader in the canola seed market for over 25 years with its InVigor hybrids.
• InVigor Gold is expected to unlock the genetic potential of canola in new regions, improving yield stability and performance.
• Montana is anticipated to be the first U.S. state to access InVigor Gold in 2027, pending regulatory approval.

Governor Gianforte’s Support for Sustainable Agriculture

Governor Gianforte has prioritized innovation in agriculture through strategic investments and collaboration with the Montana Department of Agriculture. Key focus areas include:

• Adding value to family farms and ranches.
• Expanding access to global markets.
• Promoting sustainable economic growth in line with SDG 8.

Conclusion

The introduction of InVigor Gold canola seed exemplifies a commitment to sustainable agricultural development, addressing food security, economic growth, and climate resilience. This collaboration between Governor Gianforte and BASF Agricultural Solutions advances multiple Sustainable Development Goals, fostering innovation and sustainability in Montana’s agricultural sector.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • The article focuses on agricultural innovation to improve crop yields and resilience, directly contributing to food security and sustainable agriculture.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • The introduction of new canola seed varieties with enhanced traits highlights innovation in agricultural technology and infrastructure.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Improving crop resilience and yield stability supports sustainable production practices.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Developing heat-tolerant crops addresses challenges posed by climate change, helping agriculture adapt to hotter and drier environments.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 2: Zero Hunger
   • Target 2.3: By 2030, double the agricultural productivity and incomes of small-scale food producers.
   • Target 2.4: Ensure sustainable food production systems and implement resilient agricultural practices.
2. SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
   • Target 9.5: Enhance scientific research, upgrade technological capabilities of industrial sectors.
3. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
   • Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources.
4. SDG 13: Climate Action
   • Target 13.1: Strengthen resilience and adaptive capacity to climate-related hazards and natural disasters.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Yield Performance and Stability
   • The article mentions “yield stability” and “improve yield performance,” which relate to indicators measuring agricultural productivity per hectare.
2. Adoption of Heat-Tolerant Crop Varieties
   • The introduction of heat-tolerant canola seeds implies tracking the percentage of agricultural land using climate-resilient crop varieties.
3. Resistance to Crop Diseases
   • Resistance to blackleg disease is highlighted, implying indicators related to crop health and reduction in crop losses due to disease.
4. Expansion of Agricultural Innovation
   • Number of new agricultural technologies or seed varieties developed and adopted by farmers could be an implied indicator.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: news.mt.gov