CANARYSEED INDUSTRY TO BENEFIT FROM NEW COMMISSION

Canaryseed producers can look forward to new markets, technologies and products from the recently established, producer-directed Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan.

"We have established the Commission at the industry's request, in an effort to increase the profitability of producers through the development of new market opportunities, introduction of new varieties and improved agronomic practices," Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman said.

The Commission will be financed through a refundable check-off following the success of models established for alfalfa seed, flax, canola and mustard. The check-off is initially set at $1.75 per net tonne of canaryseed sold at the first point of sale. A check-off is a mandatory deduction from the price received at the first point of sale, but producers may request a refund twice per year.

"We are pleased that the Government of Saskatchewan has approved our request for a producer-operated development commission," Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan's Interim Chair Ken Schikowski said. "I would like to thank the canaryseed producers and buyers in advance for their support in the establishment of the Commission. I look forward to working with the new directors to take initial steps in defining market development, research and extension priorities for our industry."

The Saskatchewan canaryseed industry consists of approximately 1,800 producers with an estimated acreage of 300,000 to 600,000 acres per year. The check-off will be applied to all Saskatchewan-grown canaryseed, excluding canaryseed used for planting seed, and is expected to generate an estimated revenue of $250,000 per year for market development, research and extension.

The Commission will begin collecting the check-off on May 1st, 2006. Producers and buyers are now receiving additional check-off information from the Commission.

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For More Information, Contact:

Scott Brown Agriculture and Food Regina Phone: (306) 787-4031