Download Lesson 9. Cool Canola

Unit 9: Grains and Oilseeds
Lesson 9: Cool Canola
Purpose: In our research of different grains and oilseeds we have discovered many crops that
have a wide range of uses. One crop equally useful is canola. Since the discovery of canola, it
has been used as a lubricant in early steam engines and is also used as a food source. Canola has
some very unique qualities that make it useful to consumers which leads to canola having a
sizable economic impact as well.
Directions: Access the commodities and products tab on the AgMRC website
(http://www.agmrc.org) and find the link to grains and oilseeds. Utilize information located here
to answer the questions below:
1. How was canola developed? What impact has this crop had on agricultural markets since
its development?
2. How can canola producers ensure the proper management of their crops and thus aid in
survival during production?
3. What characteristics of canola oil make it of interest in biofuel research and production?
Based on the information provided, do you think that canola oil could serve as a biofuel
source? Why or why not?
4. Why is canola oil regarded as a “close substitute for other oils”? What health benefits
does canola oil consumption provide to humans?
5. According to the AgMRC website, some large fast-food establishments have begun to
switch to using canola oil for their products. Why do you think this is so? What
marketing implications could this switch hold for these businesses and their products?
Unit 9: Grains and Oilseeds
Reinforcement activity: Custom Canola
For this activity, you will need to complete two parts. The first part will require you create a
growing plan for your own canola crop. Pretend you have been given a 100 acre plot of land to
use in your local area. You need to determine when you would ideally like to plant and harvest.
You should also consider what you will do for tillage, or possibly irrigation. This will likely
require some research beyond the AgMRC website. Remember to be specific to your local area.
If your research shows that growing canola is not recommended in your area, pick a new area
that is better suited for canola production.
The second part of the activity will be to make a list of local business or consumers that could
use or benefit from your product. Who around you could utilize the oils or nutrients from canola?