Canaryseed Check-Off In Effect May 1

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

Canaryseed growers can look forward to improved market development now that the canaryseed check-off is in effect, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food (SAF) Special Crops Specialist Ray McVicar.

“The check-off is now in place, with the Government of Saskatchewan approving the regulations to establish the Canaryseed Development Commission of Saskatchewan (CDCS)," he says. "So we have a brand new organization mandated to support research into new uses for canaryseed, including human consumption; to support plant breeding and agronomy research; and to attract other development support, such as government funding that is only available with matching money.”

McVicar feels the CDCS will put growers in the driver’s seat.

“In January and February of 2005, the Canaryseed Association of Canada (CAC) hosted information meetings in Saskatoon and Eston to discuss the check-off with producers and industry representatives. At each meeting, the CAC used a secret ballot to survey growers' support for the check-off. Of those growers who completed the ballots, 73 per cent supported the check-off. "

The canaryseed check-off has been discussed at grower meetings and field days, as well as in a number of news releases and farm publications for the past two years. There have been numerous opportunities for growers to voice their opinion and ask questions about the check-off.

The check-off is mandatory but refundable. The check-off level will be $1.75 per net tonne on commercial sales of canaryseed. Canaryseed grown for seedstock will be exempt. Growers will be registered if they have sold canaryseed within the past three years. There will be two opportunities per year for producers to apply for a refund.

The CDCS has hired Levy Central of Saskatoon to administer the check-off. The company has provided information packages to explain to buyers of Saskatchewan canaryseed how to deduct the levy and submit it to the commission. Levy Central also administers the check-offs for the Saskatchewan Canola, Flax and Mustard Development Commissions. The CDCS office will be established alongside the Saskatchewan Canola Development Commission office in Saskatoon.

“The check-off will begin on May 1, 2006," says McVicar. "The interim board of directors will begin strategic planning within the next month to set the priorities for market research and development.”

For more information, contact:

Ray McVicar
Special Crops Specialist
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-4665