A Saskatchewan-based grain company is hoping to expand the acreage for an ancient oilseed called camelina.

Smart Earth Camelina president Jack Gruschcow says he is contracting for 10 thousand acres but would like to see it grow to 500,000 acres.

He says there is strong demand for the product.

“We have a great business in equine and canine pet supplements. The meal makes high-omega eggs in layers, and we’re working with some partners in Saskatchewan to develop the meal business,” said Gruschcow. “The agriculture business is a huge customer of ours.”

Gruschcow says camelina is a short season, drought tolerant crop, good for sandy soils, with low cost inputs.