Billion Dollars in Incremental Returns to Canadian Farmers

Publications Mail Agreement #40030841 DOLLAR JULY 2014 rewards for the entire value chain. value entire the for rewards as his plant breeding skills have reaped That’s what CSTA has dubbed Ron DePauw, for It’s a the Tips to Talk Help Fund Research INDUSTRY CALLED TOINDUSTRY CALLED ON THE ON WHAT’S THE

Low-Lignin Alfalfa Science ofSeed Waiting Game Waiting Game TBI HE GOLF COURSE? BUZZ BUZZ about about LL

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Canadian Plant Breeding & Genetics Award Dr. Ron DePauw As a plant breeder with Agriculture & Agri-Food Canada, your wheat varieties – including AC Barrie, AC® Lillian, and AC® Carberry – have dominated the Prairies for over 20 years. Your efforts have resulted in $1 billion dollars in incremental returns to Canadian farmers. SEC_GER14_CSTA Ad Number: Ad Publication: Germination 8.5” x 11.125” Live: 7.125” 9.875” 8.25” x 10.875” Bleed: Trim: CSTA Seed Achievement Award Lorne Hadley As Executive Director of the Canadian Plant Technology Agency, your vision, expertise, and leadership have earned you the affectionate title, “Canada’s Seed Cop”. Your protection of Plant Breeders’ Rights continues to foster innovation in our industry.

CSTA Honorary Life Member Dr. Bill Leask As Executive Vice-President of the Canadian Seed Trade Association you have been a respected voice for Canada’s seed industry, both nationally and internationally. As a Board director you also helped establish SeCan in its formative years. Produced by: SeCan Product/Campaign Name: Brand/Germination Date Produced: May 2014

We’re proud to have worked with you. On behalf of www.secan.com the entire seed industry, we thank each of you for your contribution to Canadian agriculture.

Genes that fit your farm® is a registered trademark of SeCan.

SEC_GER14_CSTA CONTENTS July 2014 features 04 Alfalfa Awaits Regulatory Approval While low-lignin alfalfa can improve digestability of forages, the benefi ts are yet to be seen on a grower scale. What’s the hold up? 08 A World of Wheat From the wheat fi eld to judo, Ron DePauw remains focused on the task at hand. Discover what sets him apart from the crowd. 14 Operation Pollinator Learn how golf courses are beginning to play a role in creating pollinator friendly habitats. It’s about beauty and bees. 18 Registration Review Variety registration systems vary from country to country, but is there a system that works best? Read about eff orts in Canada and characteristics that comprise a good system. 24 Humanizing Science Often times, the seed industry gets a negative reputation because of 08 biotechnology. Experts share a few tips to help make the conversation a little easier while you're out and about this summer. 26 Seed Association of the Americas Update Focusing on regional issues, SAA met early this summer to discuss key issues. Diego Risso shares a few highlights. 28 High Achievers in the Spotlight CSTA and CSGA recognize select individuals for their contributions to the seed industry. Who's among them? 32 Inspectors Provide Insight How is the alternative service delivery going? Inspectors provide their perspective. 14 departments

“As farmers have adopted new CSGA 34 CSAAC 36 technologies and the cost of “The free lunch is over. This CSTA 38 seed has gone up, they expect decision means we have to that every seed put into the Cross Pollination 40 step up our game and, in ground will come up, emerge and Regulatory Roundup 42 fact, we are.” establish well.” World Status 44 Giant Views 52 Strategy Session 20 Industry News 46

JULY 2014 1 July 2014 - Vol.18, No.3 The magazine of the Canadian seed industry

PUBLISHED BY Issues Ink 6327435 Canada Ltd. 403-313 Pacifi c Avenue, Winnipeg, MB R3A 0M2 Phone: (204) 453-1965, Fax: (204) 475-5247 email: [email protected] Germination.ca

PUBLISHER Shawn Brook ([email protected])

EDITOR Julie Deering ([email protected])

EDITORIAL Mark Halsall ([email protected]) Lindsay Hoﬀ man (lhoff [email protected]) Shannon Schindle ([email protected]) Marc Zienkiewicz ([email protected])

MARKETING Craig Armstrong ([email protected]) Adria Grewal ([email protected]) Sam Mostafa ([email protected]) Hiten Shah ([email protected])

CREATIVE Jeﬀ Hiebert ([email protected]) Lesley Nakonechny ([email protected])

CIRCULATION Brad Gordon ([email protected]) Shawna Shimnowski ([email protected])

CONTRIBUTORS Peter Entz, Julie McNabb

EDITORIAL BOARD Dave Akister Holly Gelech Shaun Haney Todd Hyra Doug Knight Lee Markert Let’s Grow Together Ryan Murray Tim Welbanks

SUBSCRIPTIONS Canada $47.25/year including GST | Foreign $95/year Reliable ♦ Innovative ♦ Timely Germination™ makes no expressed or implied warranties of merchantability or fi tness for a particular purpose or otherwise, concerning the use of any product and assumes no liability for any injury or damage, direct or consequential, incurred from the use of such products or services therein. Federal, Provincial and Municipal laws and regulations supersede the information contained herein.

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Sherwood Park ♦ Winnipeg Please recycle where facilities exist. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the written permission Grande Prairie of the publisher

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Stoller Enterprises, Ltd. 1-306-528-7309 Low-Lignin Alfalfa Shows Promise New GM trait not yet available in Canada, but product might provide significant benefits to producers.

April of 2013, after more than a decade SINCE of product development, Roundup Ready alfalfa technology has been approved for commercialization in Canada. Within the next couple of years, growers could also benefit from a second genetically modified trait, which is under review, that promises higher-quality alfalfa.

Monsanto and Forage Genetics International have submitted an application for the deregulation of a new GM alfalfa — genetically engineered for reduced lignin content and improved forage quality. The application is currently under review by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada.

Although Roundup Ready alfalfa has been approved for commercialization in Canada, it's not being sold here. If the low-lignin trait is approved by Canadian authorities, Forage Genetics plans to introduce a stacked product that combines the Roundup Ready and low-lignin traits, according to Jose Arias, Forage Genetics director of alfalfa seed production. Growing or sourcing enough high-quality alfalfa can be a challenge “We’re excited about reduced lignin, which is the first because growers often have to sacrifice quality for quantity. forage quality trait in GE alfalfa,” says Mark McCaslin, Forage Genetics International vice president of research. “I’ve been talking about it at grower meetings for the past will expedite the regulatory process, but it probably simpli- three or four years as we were doing the discovery phase fies some of the analysis.” and proof-of-concept. There’s a lot of excitement among growers.” While many are excited, some are hesitant. Surya Acharya is a research scientist with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Lignin is a structural component of alfalfa plants that is at the Lethbridge Research Centre. He’s very interested in indigestible by livestock. The new trait was developed seeing low-lignin alfalfa up close and believes it's the next by suppressing a key enzyme during the plant’s synthesis breakthrough technology for growers. But Acharya says of lignin, resulting in a 12 per cent lower lignin content, some challenges might have to be overcome as lignin is a according to the deregulation petition before the USDA. substance that helps alfalfa withstand the elements.

“Rather than putting a new gene in the plant, we took an “I would like to see the kind of biomass productivity it has,” existing gene and turned down the volume — commonly Acharya says, noting that in theory, low-lignin levels in called a ‘knock out,’” McCaslin explains. “So from a regula- alfalfa could lead to weak stems, which means high winds tory standpoint, it’s a little different. I wouldn’t say that it and storms could damage the crop. He also has concerns

4 about its digestibility. “Alfalfa is fairly digestible, and that’s Monsanto and Forage Genetics International also teamed up why it can cause bloat,” Acharya says. “With low-lignin for Roundup Ready alfalfa, genetically engineered to resist alfalfa, I think it would be even more digestible. I’d love to glyphosate herbicides. see some of the data. But it sounds like it could defi nitely help some farmers to delay harvest to a later stage.”

Alfalfa quality isn’t determined completely by the stems. “Quality goes down at a mature stage because the lower “Oftentimes, growers are faced with tough leaves, which have almost twice the protein as the stems, drop,” Acharya says. “That’s another consideration I’d love choices between quantity and quality with their to see data on, how you deal with the leaf aspect if harvest alfalfa acres, so there’s inherently a lot of risk in is delayed — what quality impact does that have?” the decisions growers make.” The developers of the new trait maintain reducing lignin might provide more fl exibility for growers, who typically — Kathleen McAleenan only have a short window for reaping alfalfa before lignin content increases substantially and crop quality declines. According to Monsanto and Forage Genetics International, regular varieties of alfalfa actually contain more lignin than “We feel good that farmers are fi nding value in the trait,” they need, and the new GM alfalfa will contain 12 per McCaslin says. “It’s a unique tool for weed control in alfalfa, cent less lignin, which means the alfalfa will still be able especially during establishment, but also for control of per- to stand well. ennial weeds in established stands.”

“In producing high-quality alfalfa, there are trade-offs In late 2011, the University of California released the results between forage yield and forage quality,” explains Kathleen of a survey that showed 72 per cent of U.S. respondents who McAleenan, specialty crops business manager for Monsanto grew Roundup Ready alfalfa would grow it again. Forage Company. “Alfalfa’s forage quality, digestibility and pro- Genetics has conducted its own market research that echoes tein are highest during the early growth stages. After those fi ndings. “We’ve done quite a few grower surveys to early growth, forage yield will increase, but forage quality decreases. This is because, as the time between cuttings grows longer, or if plants are harvested at later stages, the yield per cutting might increase due to more stems and larger stems.

“On the other hand, overly mature forage is less nutritious because of its higher fi bre content. Oftentimes, growers are faced with tough choices between quantity and quality with their alfalfa acres, so there’s inherently a lot of risk in the decisions growers make. Because of this, many growers are interested in the potential benefi ts that reduced-lignin alfalfa can bring to their operation,” McAleenan adds.

She says the goal of the reduced-lignin effort is to provide farmers with harvest fl exibility when adverse weather, equipment failure or competing farm activities arise and to better manage the yield-quality relationship for their alfalfa forage production.

Producer Benefi ts McAleenan says the added yield or quality premium will benefi t growers and users of alfalfa. “High-quality alfalfa in dairy cattle rations increases milk production, while con- Quality Seed Testing trolling feed costs,” she says. “But getting enough high- Lethbridge - Nisku - Winnipeg quality alfalfa is an on-going challenge as growers typically sacrifi ce yield for quality. Because of the important role www.2020seedlabs.ca Phone. 1.877.420.2099 Fax. 1.888.900.1810 alfalfa plays in a dairy operation’s profi tability, we believe We’re excited to announce that our Winnipeg facility this particular investment will make a positive difference will be moving to a new location this fall! for growers who seek to produce more high-quality hay.”

JULY 2014 5 try to get feedback from growers in terms of their experience with Roundup Ready technology, and what we see generally in all parts of the country is … those growers who are trying it are reporting that they’ve had a positive experience and “To add value to the seed ... is a good are planting more acres,” McCaslin says. thing for the industry and for agriculture.

McAleenan agrees that Roundup Ready alfalfa continues The industry is going to be supportive of to be well received by growers, citing a recent grower anything that adds value to crops and helps survey in which 97 per cent of users reported being satis- fi ed with the technology. farmers be more profitable.” — Mark McCaslin “Growers recognize that weed competition in the establishment year reduces alfalfa yield potential and forage quality over the life of the stand,” she says. “These growers know that better stands mean more productivity, longer. We’ve farmers be more profi table. Anything that makes growers asked early adopters what they like most about the product, happy, the industry is excited about. That’s true for us as a and time and again we hear that the technology makes company and the seed industry in general.” growers’ lives easier and that the added yield pays for the technology in year one of the stand’s life.” For this reason, the staff at Forage Genetics International are particularly excited about the prospect of combining Creating Buzz Roundup Ready technology with the reduced-lignin trait McCaslin says the new GM traits being introduced by currently in the pipeline. Forage Genetics International and Monsanto are creating quite a buzz throughout the alfalfa industry, and not just “We think both of these traits add signifi cant value and fl ex- among growers. ibility for growers in terms of doing a better job controlling weeds, providing more fl exibility in cutting management “To add value to the seed … is a good thing, for the industry and increasing the likelihood of producing high-quality and for agriculture,” he says. “I think the industry is going hay, for which they get paid a premium,” McCaslin says. be supportive of anything that adds value to crops and helps Mark Halsall and Marc Zienkiewicz

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Monsanto Company is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology-Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. This product has been approved for import into key export markets with functioning regulatory systems. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Excellence Through Stewardship. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® crops contain genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Genuity and Design®, Genuity®, Roundup Ready® and Roundup® are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto Canada, Inc. licensee. ©2013 Monsanto Canada Inc. Pioneer® and the Trapezoid symbol are registered trademarks of Pioneer Hi-Bred. Proven® Seed is a registered trademark of Crop Production Services (Canada) Inc. CPS CROP PRODUCTION SERVICES and Design is a registered trademark of Crop Production Services, Inc.

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OLIV_288 Germination_FP Ad_v1.indd 1 5/21/14 2:35 PM Wheat Warden It’s more than a job. For Ron DePauw, breeding wheat and playing a role in the creation of a safe, wholesome and affordable food supply is a passion — some might even say a way of life.

others said it couldn’t WHEN be done, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Ron DePauw of Swift Current proved them wrong.

For a long time, it was believed that pre-harvest sprouting resistance couldn’t be bred into white wheat. “Together, with my colleagues, we broke that hypothesis,” says wheat breeder Ron DePauw, who’s been working for Agriculture and Agri- Food Canada since 1973, first in Beaverlodge, Alta., and today in Swift Current, Sask.

But DePauw and his team didn’t just do this one time; they did it three times. It was thought that fusarium head blight resistance could only exist in a tall plant — that’s what the experts preached, DePauw says. Then, in 2009, he and his team released a semi-dwarf with semi-resistance.

Additionally, the negative correlation between grain yield and protein content was common knowledge. But DePauw and his team were determined to show that it didn’t have to be that way. “We got access to near infrared technology, which allowed us to non-destructively measure the protein content,” he says. “We selected plants for grain yield and protein and ended up selecting a better plant. We The 2014 Canadian Plant Breeding and Genetics Award honored Ron DePauw of Swift Current, Sask. didn’t break the correlation, but we certainly shifted it. We made higher increase, while maintaining a high digm shift in the cultivars available. yielding wheat with a higher or simi- protein content required for baking Others that have come along since lar protein content.” quality. Grown on more than 41 mil- have followed suit. lion acres, AC Barrie was the most The variety AC Barrie, a hard red widely grown HRSW from 1998 to These achievements didn’t just come spring wheat, represented a major yield 2005. AC Barrie represented a para- about. They require work and lots of

8 it. Those who know DePauw describe lars. That's why CSTA has dubbed him Cultivars Developed And him as tenacious. The 70-year-old the “billion dollar man.” Co-Developed man works six days a week, arriv- Canada Western Hard Red Spring: ing at the office each morning by 7 But DePauw doesn’t work for awards. Laura Helios a.m. On any given day, one might “I’ve always wanted to make top Leader Alvena find him in the field, a greenhouse, drawer cultivars that are profitable for Lancer Goodeve laboratory or in the office. He drives farmers, safe and nutritious for con- AC Eatonia Stettler home to have lunch with his wife Elsa sumers, and that contribute to the AC Barrie Carberry Marie each day and then returns to wealth of the nation,” he says. “It’s AC Cadillac Muchmore work where he focuses his efforts on very humbling to receive this kind AC Elsa AAC Bailey improving wheat for farmers, bakers of recognition for doing something I AC Intrepid AAC Brandon and ultimately consumers until 6 p.m., enjoy.” AC Abbey AAC Elie except for Fridays and Saturdays when Lovitt BW957 he takes off at 5 p.m. Early Start Lillian BW961 As a member of his 4-H seed club in Infinity PT245 “I’m highly organized, goal-oriented Southern Manitoba, DePauw began and focused,” DePauw says. His receiving the latest varieties to grow dedication and work has resulted out for his crop project. “Since then, in the development and registra- I’ve always had an interest in the From 1998 to 2005, tion of 57 cultivars of wheat and six newest varieties,” he says. AC Barrie was grown cultivars of triticale. For the past 17 on more than 41 million years, 40 to 55 per cent of all the After high school, DePauw left wheat grown in Canada derives from Trehere, Man., to pursue his under- acres in Canada. cultivars he and his team developed. graduate work in the areas of sci- That’s why DePauw is the recipient ence at the University of Manitoba Canada Prairie Canada Western of 2014 Canadian Plant Breeding and and then philosophy and botany at Spring-Red: Amber Durum: Genetics Award. St. Louis University in Missouri. In HY320 Kyle 1970, after completing his master's Biggar AC Avonlea Given the by the Canadian Seed degree, DePauw’s work took him AC Taber AC Navigator Trade Association, the award is the to a plant breeding station in Njoro, AC Foremost AC Pathfinder highest honour for plant breeding. Kenya, where he worked on a pro- AC Crystal Strongfield “It’s an award given by peers and I ject administered by the University of AAC Ryley Commander think that means a great deal,” says Manitoba and funded by the Canadian AAC Penhold Brigade Patty Townsend, CSTA chief executive International Development Agency. It Eurostar officer. “Ron is the No. 1 plant breeder was here that he met his wife, who Canada Western Enterprise in Canada right now and you can’t happened to be visiting Njoro as part Hard White Transcend underestimate the contribution that he’s of a mission trip from northern Kenya. Spring: AAC Current made at this point in his career.” HW363 AAC Raymore But it wasn’t until DePauw enrolled AAC Durafield His contributions are even noticed in a genetics class during his gradu- Canada Prairie AAC Marchwell outside of the seed industry. In 1991, ate work back at the University of Spring-White: DT840 DePauw received the Saskatchewan Manitoba that the sparks began to fly. Genesis DT844 Order of Merit. Then, in 1994, he was AC Karma made a Fellow of the Agricultural “I became totally fascinated,” DePauw AC Vista Canada Eastern Institute of Canada. In 2003, he says, noting that he’s always had an AC2000 Red Spring: became a Member of the Order extensive curiosity about nature, Snonwhite475 Griffon of Canada. DePauw has received plants and animals. “There’s tremen- Snowwhite476 numerous other awards, including an dous diversity but you can see patterns Triticale: Honorary Doctor of Science from the or similarities of traits. I’ve always Canada Western Frank University of Saskatchewan in 2012. been fascinated by what’s behind this Extra Strong: AC Copia and knew there had to be something. Bluesky AC Alta According to CSTA, the incremental And eugenics brought all the pieces of Wildcat AC Certa value of grain produced from DePauw’s the puzzle together.” DePauw explains AC Ultima wheat cultivars exceeds a billion dol- that the Greek word for good is “eu” Brevis JULY 2014 9 Having spent a lifetime working to advance wheat cultivars and varieties, Ron DePauw of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada takes time to enjoy the little things in life, such as Judo and choreographed ballroom dancing with his wife Elsa Marie. and that eugenics is the deliberate able to reduce the business risks for only have about 25 years of readily making of genetic combinations to producers and processors,” he says. extractable phosphorus,” he says. get a positive good. “We've really developed the capacity “And then we have another 25 years to collect plant breeding information of difficult to extract phosphorus. In 1973, DePauw earned his doctor- and market intelligence — to know After that, we have a problem.” ate in genetics and plant pathology what is required by the market and from the University of Manitoba. He’s then be able to find that needle in the Achieving these goals is going to take been working to improve wheat cul- hay stack.” a collaborative effort. While DePauw tivars ever since. Being outdoors with works to increase nitrogen and phos- the plants and making the selections Today, DePauw focuses on making phorus efficiency, he stresses it really is extremely rewarding, but DePauw plants more nutrient efficient, espe- needs to be a team effort — that also says it's extremely tiring. “You’ve cially in the areas of nitrogen, phos- public and private institutions need got the rubber boots sticking in the phorus and water. “Right now the to come together and work on these soil and mosquitos to deal with on top nitrogen use efficiency of wheat you issues. of the weather,” he says. “But when put in the ground runs about 30 to you can see the genetic variations 45 per cent,” he says. “So if you put Advocating for Science and select what will work in farmers’ on 1,000 pounds of nitrogen, which One of the things that frustrates fields, it’s rewarding and exhilarating is expensive, current wheat varieties DePauw is all the misinformation out to know there’s the potential to make only use 350 to 400 pounds. The rest in the public domain. For example, something better than what’s already is gone. If we could increase nitrogen DePauw says the book “Wheat Belly” out there.” efficiency to 40 to 50 per cent, we by Dr. William Davis accuses plant would make a huge gain, and I think breeders of changing wheat. So what's Through the years, DePauw says we can do better than that.” DePauw doing about it. For several that industry and stakeholders have years, he's been growing out red fife learned that genetics work. “We have DePauw also stresses the importance and several of the original primitive incredible opportunities in being of phosphorus to plant growth. “We wheat varieties and comparing it to the

10 descendants of red fi fe. As a part of be purchased and we have to be able this project, DePauw has been working to get it to the market.” with a cereal chemist, Nancy Edwards, and a nutritionist, Dr. Nancy Ames. DePauw is excited about the next fron- “We can't find any differences tier where plant breeders can more “This is our third year on the project in the amino acid, chemical, easily use molecular markers, which and we can't fi nd any differences in the are linked to high-value genes. “There amino acid, chemical, mineral or vita- mineral or vitamin content. This will be more and the costs will come min content,” he says. “This is a case is a case where someone made down,” he says. “We'll also know where someone made an accusation which regions are less detrimental.” He where there was no science behind it.” an accusation where there was believes genomic technology will con- DePauw is careful to acknowledge that no science behind it.” tinue to expand, accelerating the pace there is gluten intolerance and celiac and accuracy in making better selec- disease. However, these don't mean — Ron DePauw tions at all stages. However, DePauw wheat is bad, he explains. says the need for nurseries and fi eld trials won't go away. As for the future, DePauw believes its extremely bright. “With the world “We'll be applying new tools, but population increasing to more than 9 He says climate change will have still have the old tools, too,” DePauw billion people by 2050, that's a lot of a negative impact on agricultural says. “Genomics is just another tool extra demand,” he says. “Right now production, but notes that Canada — more sophisticated. My research about 1 billion people (one in seven) might experience some improve- has no value unless it contributes to are in a food defi cit situation. Things ments. “There's a greater opportunity safe, wholesome and nutritional food; need to be done at a global level to for Canada to contribute to the food otherwise, it won't be profi table for bring these people into the economic supply and food security,” DePauw farmers. You have to think of it in its sphere so they can purchase food.” says. “But this food has to be able to entirety.” Julie Deering

Lorne Hadley Ron DePauw

on receiving the on receiving the 2014 Seed Achievement Award 2014 Canadian Plant Breeding and Genetics Award

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Visit www.lewismcarter.com or call LMC at 1-800-667-6924 to arrange your FREE Seed Assessment. OPERATION POLLINATOR An innovative program from Syngenta Canada uses wildfl owers to promote bee populations and bee health while enhancing the view on golf courses.

in the view. If you’re a golfer, it’s prob- TAKING ably a big part of what draws you to the sport. And thanks to a plan to enhance bee populations through the infusion of wildfl owers, the view at your favourite golf course could get even better.

Syngenta Canada is piloting a program called Operation Pollinator, which is designed to increase the number of pollinating insects on and near golf courses by transform- ing out-of-play areas into improved habitats for bees and other important pollinators.

To-date, Operation Pollinator has been launched at two courses in southern Ontario — the Brantford Golf and Country Club and Cutten Fields in downtown Guelph. Throughout 2014-2015, the program will be expanded beyond the initial pilot phase to add additional golf courses. This means more Canadian courses could soon be sporting a lot more wildfl owers.

“We gave a presentation at the Canadian International Turfgrass Conference in Vancouver [in February] to talk about this program, and the amount of interest from golf courses was remarkable,” says Paul Hoekstra, stewardship manager with Syngenta Canada.

The Brantford and Guelph courses join hundreds of others in the United States and Europe benefi tting from the program. According to the company, the launch of Operation Pollinator in Ontario last year was, in part, based on recognition of the success of similar Syngenta initiatives in other parts of the world during the past decade. In the next few years, golfers will start to see an uptick in wildfl owers Originally launched in the United Kingdom, the program and pollinator-friendly habitats on courses throughout Canada. includes both on-farm and off-farm components and

14 operates in more than 13 countries. "In the broadest sense, unlike agriculture, don’t have a direct benefit from pollinators, it is about restoring natural habitats and food sources to but bee health is important to everybody in the country,” improve the fortunes of native pollinators, such as bumble- he says. “We’re a privately managed green space right in bees, butterflies and other insects that thrive when diverse the middle of an urban community, so if we can use part sources of food are available,” Hoekstra says. of our green space and provide a benefit to the community through something like this, we’re certainly willing to.” Through Operation Pollinator, Syngenta provides partici- pating golf courses with a custom-blended seed mix that Bee populations and bee health are top-of-mind issues includes native wildflowers. The golf course then uses this these days, with some areas of the world dealing with sig- seed and other management practices to create pollen- and nificant bee health issues and population declines. "There nectar-rich habitats in out-of-play areas. is general scientific consensus that bee health is affected by a variety of interdependent factors including things like According to Hoekstra, Operation Pollinator not only pro- parasitic mites, disease, poor nutrition, habitat, inadequate motes bee health, but also helps build the environmental food supplies and management practices, including pes- profile of golf courses. ticides, which must be used properly to minimize their impact on bee populations," Hoekstra says. “It allows us to work with golf courses or other stakeholders to develop seed mixes that are unique to our climate, that are unique to our growing conditions, and that have also been scientifically validated,” he says.

According to Paul Evenden, course superintendent at the Brantford Golf and Country Club, golf courses provide great “It is about restoring natural habitats and food potential to create essential habitat and food sources for a sources to improve the fortunes of native range of native bees and pollinating insects. "Experiences in other jurisdictions have demonstrated that the creation pollinators, such as bumblebees, butterflies and of even small areas of dedicated habitat can significantly other insects that thrive when diverse sources of increase the number of pollinators,” he says. food are available.”

Aesthetic Benefits — Paul Hoekstra David Kuypers, course superintendent at Cutten Fields, says an added benefit of the program is that it provides new visual features for golfers to enjoy. "Operation Pollinator provides an excellent opportunity for golf courses to diver- sify their fields of play," he says, adding that those parts of Cutten Fields that aren’t directly in play actually make up most of the course. However, he adds that the number of bee colonies in Canada has actually been increasing in recent decades, referring “It certainly provides an aesthetic benefit compared to to Statistics Canada data showing a 40 per cent jump in what was there, which would have been woody weeds or bee colony numbers since the 1950s. “It goes without saying aggressive grasses,” Kuypers explains. that pollinators are important to us all,” Hoekstra says. "We want to build on what we have through initiatives such Because this is the first year of Operation Pollinator seeding as Operation Pollinator for the benefit of both managed at the course, it will be two or three years before people and native pollinators.” see the full effect of the program — a bank of wildflowers of different varieties that will be in bloom virtually for all Syngenta, he says, has a vested interest in protecting polli- of the growing season. “The bees will have a forage source nators because “the products we sell and the growers we’re throughout the season,” says Kuypers, adding that golfers working with are dependent on bees to make their liveli- will benefit from a changing landscape that reflects different hood. We require healthy bees, not just for our business, wildflower blooms. but also for the health of the business of our customers. So for us, it’s about making sure we can work holistically with Kuypers says the leadership of Cutten Fields had no reserva- various tools to promote bee health, whether it's through tions about pitching in to promote bee health. “Golf courses biodiversity or the stewardship of our products.” Mark Halsall

JULY 2014 15 CSGA 2014 AGM SOLVING THE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS PARTNERSHIP PUZZLE STEVE FABIJANSKI, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AGRISOMA BIOSCIENCES Steve Fabijanski brings more than 20 years of senior executive experience within the agriculture Canadian seed growers are on the frontline of the many changes currently taking place in and biotechnology industry to his leadership of Agrisoma, as well as a background in science Canada’s seed industry. An integral part of the seed industry in Canada, seed growers are and the seeds business. He built a seed company in the hybrid canola seeds business and has extensive hands-on agricultural industry experience from smaller organizations to working facing these changes head-on and the topics of this year’s CSGA Annual General Meeting are extensively with large global seed companies. Fabijanski will share AgriSoma’s very interesting a perfect example of their continued commitment to advancing the industry. story and the partnerships they are forming with pedigreed seed growers to produce an oilseed crop that will be used in the development of jet fuel, among other things.

With the theme of ‘Solving the Partnership Puzzle’, the Canadian Seed Growers’ Annual General Meeting is taking place in Regina, Sask., July 9 to 12, 2014. When planning began for this meeting, the host Saskatchewan committee knew that now was the perfect time to address the changes happening in the industry and wanted to challenge growers to think beyond their THE HONOURABLE BILL BOYD, MINISTER FOR THE ECONOMY, GOVERNMENT OF SASKATCHEWAN operation to the health of the industry at large. Bill Boyd is one of the founding members of the Saskatchewan Party and has been involved on the Saskatchewan political scene for nearly two decades. A pedigreed seed grower himself, Solving the Partnership Puzzle is the final theme the host Saskatchewan Seed Growers Association decided upon. The theme Boyd has been a key player since 2007 on the government’s executive team. Saskatchewan has was chosen to speak to the many layers of collaboration that are required to build and sustain any business, but more specifically gone from a ‘have not’ province to one of the leaders in the country in economic growth and the seed industry in Canada. stability. Boyd will speak to the power of partnerships in building a strong business.

It was with this in mind that the organizing committee set out to establish their seed grower program, searching out speakers and topics that would help growers think about how they interact with the industry. The past couple of years have seen many CAMI RYAN changes to agriculture, and the seed industry in particular. SSGA felt that growers and industry partners would relate to the Cami Ryan is an outspoken advocate for ag, science and consumers and has worked in theme as a representation of the ongoing challenges and opportunities, particularly in regulatory and market development. agriculture for over 20 years. Cami critically investigates anti-science – especially anti- biotechnology networks and how special interest groups develop campaigns to attack specific The end result is an informative and dynamic group of speakers for the CSGA 2014 AGM. The organizing committee’s goal issues. In particular, she explores the role of social media tools (Twitter, Facebook, etc) as was to get people talking, and when you combine these thought-provoking speakers with the networking and camaraderie platforms for launching anti-science campaigns. Cami provides critical insights into how ‘bad science’ can get ‘good legs’, propelling misinformation onto the public radar through weak of the AGM it is a recipe for success. SSGA hopes that the will help growers empowered to be advocates for positive change or non-existent peer review. Cami’s self-titled blog provides a platform for discourse around in the seed industry. current agriculture and food controversies. Cami is currently a Professional Affiliate with the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of Saskatchewan (Canada). She holds Partnerships are critical, and SSGA know that the industry needs to work together to continue driving change. As the role a Bachelor of Commerce (Major in Biotechnology Management) and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary of seed growers evolves it is up to all stakeholders to be part of the decision making process and champions of the industry. Studies (agricultural economics, business and sociology).

Look for more information from the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association’s Annual General Meeting at seedgrowers.ca. GREG JOHNSON, THE TORNADO HUNTER A firm believer in the ‘Bucket List’ philosophy, Greg’s mission is to inspire others to chase their own passions, while sharing and teaching the lessons he has learned from pursuing his. John- son is one of North America’s top professional storm-chasers and severe weather experts and is also an accomplished photographer, speaker and workshop leader. Using sophisticated weather-tracking technology, his ability to read severe weather patterns and a team of dedicated CSGA2014 sidekicks, Greg has put over 180,000 kms on his Tornado Truck, intercepting and documenting – SOLVING THE PARTNERSHIP PUZZLE – hundreds of storms across the United States and Canada since 2011 alone. JULY 9-11, 2014 REGINA, SASKATCHEWAN CSGA 2014 AGM SOLVING THE KEYNOTE SPEAKERS PARTNERSHIP PUZZLE STEVE FABIJANSKI, PRESIDENT AND CEO, AGRISOMA BIOSCIENCES Steve Fabijanski brings more than 20 years of senior executive experience within the agriculture Canadian seed growers are on the frontline of the many changes currently taking place in and biotechnology industry to his leadership of Agrisoma, as well as a background in science Canada’s seed industry. An integral part of the seed industry in Canada, seed growers are and the seeds business. He built a seed company in the hybrid canola seeds business and has extensive hands-on agricultural industry experience from smaller organizations to working facing these changes head-on and the topics of this year’s CSGA Annual General Meeting are extensively with large global seed companies. Fabijanski will share AgriSoma’s very interesting a perfect example of their continued commitment to advancing the industry. story and the partnerships they are forming with pedigreed seed growers to produce an oilseed crop that will be used in the development of jet fuel, among other things.

responsive and efficient seed regulatory system con- • Streamline the process by maintaining a minimum A tributes to the success of a country’s crop produc- level of government oversight, and eliminate any merit tion sector. However, each country has its own regulations assessment or performance data under the variety when it comes to variety registration. As the seed industry registration system, which was supported by 17 per cent evolves, it’s becoming more clear that while these vari- of respondents. ety registration systems around the world can differ, one common theme needs to exist for seed industries to ensure • Withdraw the federal government’s role in variety regis- their end users are successful — a flexible variety registration, allowing industry or third parties to assume these tration system that meets the needs of the various value functions, which was supported by 13 per cent. chains of the many different crops found in that country. Following the survey, Patty Townsend, CEO of the Streamline the System Canadian Seed Trade Association, worked with mem- The Canadian government has taken a leadership role in bers to release a statement, which requests that any revi- updating its variety registration system. This past year, it sions to the variety registration system maintain current began reviewing Canada’s crop variety registration system exemptions from registration such as corn and the ability with the goal of streamlining it. to exempt crop species, types and kinds from registration (with a first priority of exempting oilseed type soybeans Stakeholders were asked to consider four alternatives in from registration). The statement also called for all crop an issues and policy paper prepared by Agriculture and species, kinds and types to be placed in Part 3 of Schedule Agri-Food Canada, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency III of the Seeds Regulations, providing government over- and the Canadian Grain Commission. Options ranged from sight but removing merit requirements and the need for a allowing flexibility in the current, recently revised system recommendation from a recognized recommending com- to eliminating the federal government’s role in the variety mittee, except where the value chain for the crop kind registration process completely. provides the rationale and consensus for the crop kind to remain in Part I or Part II. The following results were collected after the comment period ended in November: On June 4, CFIA released a notice to the industry, stating that regulatory changes are now in effect that streamline • Allow the flexibility inherent in the current variety reg- the variety registration process for new oilseed soybean istration system to emerge, which was supported by 37 and forage varieties. It says the amendments provide a percent of respondents. more efficient approval process and support faster access to innovative varieties that are in global demand. New oilseed • Streamline the regulatory process by requiring that all soybean and forage crop varieties can now be expedited crops meet minimum registration requirements with the as the registration process has been simplified. Specifically, option for some crops to have merit assessment through pre-registration testing and merit assessments will no longer an independent assessment process, which was sup- be required. All relevant safety assessments will continue. ported by 27 per cent of respondents. An application to register a new plant variety is only per-

18 mitted after these safety assessments are complete and the in line with the needs of the commercial industry? That’s variety is deemed safe for commercial production. what we need to ask,” he says. “Can new varieties come through the system fast enough to meet the needs of the To reduce duplication, the amended regulations have marketplace? Variety registration systems have to be highly removed the option to suspend a variety registration. responsive.”

The variety registration system is designed to prevent fraud, The United States doesn’t have a formal variety registration support seed certification, foster international trade and system in place, but relies on the marketplace to determine enable tracking in the marketplace, according to CFIA. The which varieties best meet the needs of farmers. relevant amendments to the Seeds Regulations included moving oilseed soybean and forage crop varieties from Part “It’s preferable to offer the market and farmers ample free- I to Part III of Schedule III. dom to make varietal choices and allow the market to drive decisions about which varieties can be purchased,” says Meet the Market’s Needs Bernice Slutsky, American Seed Trade Association senior Ken Nelson, president of Alberta-based K L Nelson vice president of domestic and international policy. “This Associates Inc. and breeders representative for KWS-UK, system allows new varieties to be more quickly introduced says Canada has work to do to improve its variety regis- into the market and adopted by farmers, thus giving farmers tration process. He feels the Canadian system needs to more immediate access to the benefits of new advances in be market-based versus regulatory-based. “The system in breeding.” But governments and industries must keep in Canada is regulatory-based, whereas the United States and mind the varying dynamics at play from country to country. Australia have market-driven systems,” he says. “The marketplace should determine what is grown.” “There is no ‘one model,’ even within Canada,” Townsend says. “The variety registration system needs to be flexible While it’s hard to compare variety registrations from coun- to accommodate the needs of the value chains of the many try to country, Nelson says that as nations look to stream- different crops in Canada. We need a flexible, transparent line their systems, they need to look around the world for and nimble system that can ensure our plant breeders and successes and then apply that to their own needs — all variety developers have the tools they need to give farmers while keeping the market in mind. “Is variety registration access to varieties that best suit their needs.” Julie McNabb

Congratulations to Dr. William Leask Honourary Lifetime Member Award Thanks Bill for your years of dedicated effort in supporting and building the Canadian Seed industry, and for your professionalism in representing our industry in Canada and around the world.

Well done.

performing everywhere you go.

JULY 2014 19 Business-critical information for retailers selling seed and seed treatment products.

SEED TREATMENTS

THERE’S NO DOUBT that seed treatments have taken the seed industry by storm during the past 10 years. Globally, it’s estimated that the seed treatment market was worth $2.29 billion in 2012 and is expected to reach $4.19 billion by 2018, according to a seed treatment market report published by Markets and Markets in 2013. Among all seed treatment products, insecticides form the largest segment and accounted for nearly 51.7 per cent of the global seed treatment market in 2012, while fungicides comprised 34.8 per cent of the market. Results on the farm drive demand as about 21 million acres of canola are seeded with neonicotinoid treated seed and about 3.6 million corn acres Researchers and product specialists at Bayer CropScience study, test and analyze seed treatment are seeded with neonicotinoid treated products rigorously to help farmers protect the seed and get the most from their crop. seed, according to CropLife Canada. There are four approaches to seed use of a seed treatment dates back ment products on the market. treatments — to protect, to eradicate, to 60 A.D., when wine and crushed CropLife Canada says its members to disinfect and to enhance. The key cypress leaves were used to protect are committed to full lifecycle steward- market players are Bayer CropScience, seed from storage insects. The active ship of our products. As part of this BASF, Nufarm and Syngenta. Several component in this mixture was likely commitment, CropLife Canada's sister other players are emerging in the seed hydrogen cyanide. organiztion, CleanFarms, is piloting treatment market with products rang- Bayer CropScience released its first a collection program for insecticide- ing from traditional chemistries to bio- seed treatment, known as Uspulun, in treated seed bags in regions of Ontario based products. 1914 after chemist George Wesenberg and Quebec to ensure they are safely While their popularity has grown discovered that chlorophenol mercury disposed of after the farmer returns in recent years, seed treatments aren’t controlled fungal pathogens in cereals them. new; they’ve been around for thou- without impairing germination. Today, Additionally, CropLife America sands of years. The earliest reported there are more than 100 seed treat- reports that in 2011, more than 90

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20 GETTING KEY MESSAGES INTO THE HANDS THAT NEED THEM. For a grower handout on this topic, visit Germination.ca.. Send us your company name and logo and we'll develop a customized PDF for you to distribute to your grower customers.

per cent of the corn seed planted in be exposed to it because the seed is the United States received some kind planted directly into the ground. of seed treatment. And all soybean However, there has been increas- seed treatment fungicide combinations ing scrutiny regarding seed treatment included at least one product that is stewardship and its impacts on the active against rhizoctonia. environment, specifically pollina- So if seed treatments have been tors. Health Canada has been work- around for centuries, why all the buzz ing closely with growers, beekeepers, about it now? seed treatment facilities, and seeding According to Ray Knake of Ray equipment manufacturers in Canada to Knake Consulting, there are several develop short- and long-term strategies reasons: improvements in active ingre- for protecting pollinators, including dients that can be applied to the seed; honeybees. changes in farming practices that result According to Sara Lauer, media in seeds being sown earlier; increased relations officer for Health Canada, input costs that necessitate maximum the strategies include a guide titled crop production; and the fact that Pollinator Protection and Responsible there’s no alternative to below-ground Martin Gruss, head of Bayer CropScience Use of Treated Seed: Best Management pest control post-seeding. SeedGrowth Products, discusses seed treatments. Practices, which was released in Martin Gruss, who is head of Bayer February 2013 and outlines BMPs for SeedGrowth Products, says that as scientifi c review and risk assessment planting neonicotinoid-treated seed. the value of seed has increased, seed of more than 200 separate studies that This guide was developed in consulta- treatments have become increasingly test a range of health and environ- tion with a wide variety of stakeholders important. “As farmers have adopted mental impacts before it will approve to ensure that the recommended prac- new technologies, such as precision a pest control product for sale or use tices were as practical and effective as seeding, and the cost of seed has gone in Canada. Even after a product has possible and would be well received. up, they expect that every seed put into been approved, it must be regularly Health Canada has been closely the ground will come up, emerge and re-evaluated to ensure that the product monitoring the effectiveness of establish well,” Gruss says. “Our job is meets the most current international the BMPs during this planting season, to continuously develop new products and Canadian scientifi c standards. Lauer says, adding that if necessary, to control pests and diseases.” CropLife Canada explains that the practices will be revised based on Monitored by Health Canada's pesticides are regulated on the basis grower feedback on their practicality Pest Management Regulatory Agency of risk rather than hazard. For exam- and effectiveness. (PMRA), seed treatments undergo a ple, insecticides are hazardous to Lauer also points to a growing rigorous, scientifi c evaluation process. bees; however, when an insecticide is number of industry-led initiatives in Health Canada does a comprehensive applied to seeds, bees should never Canada aimed at protecting pollina-

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JULY 2014 21 tors. “Longer-term strategies such as improved seed coatings, lubricants and seeding equipment continue to be developed by stakeholders,” she says. CropLife Canada is one of those stakeholders, which in cooperation with growers, beekeepers and provincial government agricultural agencies, has also developed a set of best management practices for the use of seed-applied insecticides posted on the CropLife Canada website. Pierre Petelle, vice-president of chemistry with CropLife Canada, says another project is underway to develop safe handling protocols and recommendations for commercial seed treatment facilities. “Those will be fi nalized over the next year and Researchers work to develop seed coatings. brought into force in 2015,” he says. Petelle believes these types of industry-led stewardship initiatives make a neonicotinoid ban, like that “We think that industry taking initiative and just imposed in Europe, unlikely to demonstrating that it can regulate in these areas on happen in Canada anytime soon. its own certainly does avoid some of the interventions “We think that industry taking initiative and demonstrating that it can from government.” regulate in these areas on its own cer- — Pierre Petelle tainly does avoid some of the interventions from governments,” he says. “In related to seed treatments — prod- yield advantage of 1.5 to 2.5 bushels our opinion, the European decision ucts, coatings, equipment and service. per acre. [to ban neonicotinoid treated seeds] “We are the only company that has This year, Syngenta Canada wasn’t grounded in science — it was research and development efforts in launched Vibrance Maxx seed treat- a political outcome. all four areas,” Gruss says. ment, a combination of Apron Maxx "So we have full confi dence that One of Bayer’s newest product RTA and Vibrance, for use on peas, the scientifi c review being conducted innovations in the United States is lentils and chickpeas. According to by PMRA and EPA will yield a different Poncho/VOTiVO, which combines an Syngenta, Vibrance Maxx seed treat- result. We are fully confi dent that they insecticide with a biological for pest ment provides control of early-season will continue to support a science- control and added yield potential on diseases, including Rhizoctonia, to help based approach, and the science does corn, soybean and cotton seed. Gruss ensure a healthy stand establishment. support the safety of these products.” says Bayer is the fi rst company to com- "Now growers can reap the ben- bine a chemical insecticide (Poncho) efi ts of advanced technology, deliver- CURRENT EFFORTS with a biological (VOTiVO). According ing strong results in their pulse crops Gruss, who’s been with Bayer for 36 to Bayer, in more than 150 replicated — similar to what they've experienced years, says the company is unique in soybean fi eld trials in 2011 and 2012, in their cereal fi elds with products like that it has four areas of competency Poncho/VOTiVO provided an average Cruiser Maxx Vibrance Cereals and

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22 Vibrance XL," says Nathan Klages, 2,000 pounds per minute.” Not only is WHAT’S AT THE FOREFRONT product lead, Seedcare with Syngenta On Demand fully automated, but it was OF SEED TREATMENTS? Canada. also designed with product stewardship One of the biggest opportunities for With seed treatments steward- and inventory management in mind. seed treatment growth lies in those ship and proper training are critical. Another important player in the crops that are typically left untreated, According to Syngenta's stewardship seed treatment market is BASF, which such as cereals, Bayer’s Gruss says. guide, "proper application of seed offers a portfolio of inoculants, color- “There’s a lot of seed that goes treatments can only be achieved if the ants, and biological and chemical seed untreated that could benefi t,” he says. equipment being used in functioning treatments. “Today, Bayer is working on a properly and the person operating the BASF offers the inoculants seed treatment package that would equipment is properly trained on the Nodulator, Nodulator N/T and allow use on rice while the seed is operation, calibration, slurry prepara- Nodulator PRO for use on soybeans. presoaked,” Gruss says. “Treating rice tion and maintenance of the equip- The company also offers Nodulator XL seed is not a common practice, so we ment. It is the responsibility of the for use on lentils and peas. Nodulator are trying to make it so that the pro- treater operator and the location man- N/T and Nodulator PRO are a result cessing side of things wouldn’t have agement to ensure all personnel are of Becker Underwood’s BioStacked to change to accommodate the seed fully trained to operate the specifi ed Technology, which combines com- treatment.” equipment." plementary biological components to Bayer is in the late field-testing The guide addresses slurry prepa- achieve greater yield. stage and fi ne-tuning it before they ration, calibration, treating seed and According to BASF, Biostacked soy- present the product to key stakehold- cleaning for a variety of crops, ranging bean inoculants promote greater plant ers, Gruss explains. from alfalfa and canola to corn and vigour, greater root biomass, more While looking at seed that’s not potatoes. nitrogen-fi xing nodules, suppression typically been treated is one future On the equipment side of the of seedling diseases caused by rhizoc- approach, biological seed treatments seed treatment business, Bayer has tonia and fusarium and higher yield and plant extracts are the latest new- recently launched its On Demand potential. comers to the seed treatment scene. System, which is a highly sophisticated On the fungicide side of things, Biological seed treatments and application that completely automates BASF offers Insure Cereal, a fungicide plant extracts are commercially used recipes and documentation of the seed treatment designed to help control on large amounts of seed. Some have treatment. disease on barley, oats, rye, triticale specific pest control claims, while “Nearly 80 per cent of soybeans are and wheat. others are being sold as yield enhanc- treated downstream, and growers usu- “The seed has its most potential ers or as products that will improve ally have their seed treated the day before farmers ever open the bag,” plant health and vigour. before or the day of planting,” explains says AJ Woodyard, who serves as a BASF’s Becker Underwood has Kerry Grossweiler, Bayer SeedGrowth technical crop production specialist for a strong foothold in the biologicals equipment and coatings manager at BASF. “Everything after that negatively sector. It is the world’s largest pro- Bayer CropScience’s North American impacts it.” ducer of benefi cial nematodes and it headquarters. “The On Demand But the technology and products provides the leading bio-control solu- system is ideal because it is the fi rst change so quickly, farmers really tion for locusts in Africa, Australia and only fully automated seed applica- depend on their local agronomist or and Asia. tion system developed to make treat- seed dealer in selecting the best seed As consumers continue to demand ing seeds easier, more accurate and treatments for their needs. This is the food with fewer chemical residues and effi cient. true service that companies can pro- farmers consistently seek ways to pre- The On Demand system is a key vide farmers — making sure they get serve the effectiveness of their pest component in the quick turnaround the right product for their local envi- control tools, biologicals are primed of soybeans, because it can treat up to ronment. for growth.

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JULY 2014 23 SHORTEN AND SIMPLIFY GMO CONVERSATIONS Sometimes, talking to people away from the office about the work can be a challenge, especially when it comes to GMOs. Here are some tips to help you talk about what you do and why it’s important.

are many questions that consumers and the THEREgeneral public have about seed and the role that biotechnology and genetically modified organisms play in the food system. Battling negative perceptions, and clearing up misconceptions, is an ongoing challenge for those in the seed industry.

For this reason, it’s not unreasonable to be reluctant to talk about what you do. Germination talks with communications experts to see what advice they have for helping you discuss what you do and why it’s important — in essence, how to have the GMO conversation. Janice Person, director of social Fran Castle, Global Brand and media, Monsanto. Media Communications senior Julie Borlaug, granddaughter of Green Revolution pioneer manager, BASF Plant Science. Norman Borlaug, spoke about A World without GMOs at the Ag Issues Forum, hosted by Bayer CropScience. Having the GMO conversation was one of the points in her speech; in Borlaug’s view, distilling the message down to a human level and being prepared are key to success.

“Our messaging has been wrong from the get go,” says Borlaug, who is associate director for external relations at the Norman Borlaug Institute for International Agriculture. “We’ve taken our arguments for the benefits of all this, but we’ve done it in a scientific approach and … no one outside of ag understands what we are talking about. “We need to get more human stories about the benefits and bring it down a level.” Camille Ryan, professional affiliate with the College of Agriculture and For example, Borlaug says when talking with friends that Bioresources, University of Saskatchewan. are moms, she shares the benefits of plant technology to the citrus industry, specifically Florida oranges. “Without Camille Ryan couldn’t agree more. “The only thing that I it, the price for orange juice will skyrocket and might even would add is that 90-second pitch has to be your story; it has to become scarce due to disease pressure,” she says. be personal,” says the outspoken science and agriculture advocate who blogs regularly about food production. “It Having travelled the world, she also talks about the ability to doesn’t mean that you're not bringing in those facts, but it make staple foods, such as rice, more nutritious by adding has to come from you, and it has be authentic.” micronutrients. “On other continents, this technology can be the difference between living and dying,” she says. Ryan who is a professional affiliate with the College of Agriculture and Bioresources at the University of What will you talk about? “Your message needs to be a Saskatchewan explains that the first step in having a suc- 90-second elevator pitch," she says. "If you in 90 seconds cessful GMO discussion is recognizing that what you say can’t tell someone the benefits of GMOs, then we have a isn’t nearly as significant as how you say it. “How to com- problem.” municate is way more important than the actual message

24 you want to send out,” Ryan says. “The general public is not the door,” Ryan adds. “You have to lead with that human- interested in facts or packaged information. They’re looking to-human connection … because if the face-to-face fails, for a story, they’re looking for connection, they’re looking then the facts won’t matter at all.” for something that appeals to their values. Relate Through Common Values “The statement of ‘we’re going to feed the world’ — people For more casual conversations with family and friends, aren’t buying that anymore. They want something else, and Fran Castle, BASF plant science global brand and media that’s where the human-to-human connection matters." communications senior manager, encourages those in the seed industry to not only talk about the benefits of the Janice Person is the director of social media at Monsanto. She technology but to also understand the arguments com- shares Ryan’s view when it comes to packaged information. municated by those who oppose GMOs. This past year, “I have to say, canned messages don't work too well — they the seed industry launched GMO Answers so that it could sound canned,” Person says. “But when we talk about how do a better job of answering questions about GMOs from we personally have the confidence in the products so that the public. It is an initiative committed to responding to we feel comfortable serving biotech products to our children any question people have about how their food is grown. or how we personally have seen the positive impact on the environment, those experiences have real power for others.” If seed industry employees are given more tools to be able to handle these kinds of discussions outside of the workplace, Ryan agrees that it’s important for those who work in the Castle thinks they will be much more satisfied with their jobs. industry to relate what technology means to them. “If you just start repeating other messages, it’s no longer authentic,” Both Ryan and Person stress the importance of keeping she says. “Come up with a way of conveying information in one’s head in GMO discussions. “For those of us engaged a manner that’s almost like a story. We can find common in biotechnology, we see how polarized the conversa- ground person-to-person all the time. It doesn’t necessarily tion has become and it can be intimidating to find ways have to start with agriculture or technology. It can start with to enter the conversation. We also find ourselves heavily other things like your kids both play hockey or you go to rooted in data and information and seeing the emotions the same church. That’s where real connections are made. expressed are so different than the knowledge we have, it is hard to wade into. Hard, but it can be done respectfully “Yes, you have to be accurate in providing your information and that's why talking through this is so critical,” Person but the information doesn’t need to be the first thing out says. Mark Halsall fusarium before it starts. STOP In the ground. In the plant.

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JULY 2014 25 ERAL GEN RY TA RE EC S A A S , O SEED ASSOCIATION OF S S I THE AMERICAS R

G CANADA

E I UNITED STATES D MEXICO BRAZIL PARAGUAY CHILE ARGENTINA URUGUAY

SAA Spearheads Priority Working Groups As the Seed Association of the Americas pushes to ease the movement of seed between countries, more member engagement is needed.

26 of the Seed Association of the questions and the other to serve as a resource of all the MEMBERS Americas (SAA) met the first seed applied products and relevant product information.” week of May in Buenos Aires, Argentina, to address four priority issues — biotechnology, intellectual property, seed To help address concerns regarding intellectual property, treatment and phytosanitary requirements. the working group drafted goals and an action plan during its May meeting. SAA also encourages all member coun- To better address the priority areas, SAA formed four working tries to adopt UPOV 91 because it’s one of the best protec- groups. “We are working to strengthen each of these working tion systems for IP. groups and increasing communication within for improved preparedness,” says Diego Risso, SAA secretary general. Risso also reports that the phytosanitary working group “SAA connects with all the regulators in the Americas and strives to speed up the pest risk analysis process, as that’s is the forum for those in the seed industry to address their a major bottleneck and can take anywhere from months concerns.” to several years to be completed.

Regarding biotechnology, SAA members had proactive “We continue to improve our communications with discussions in order to update their LLP position paper. national regulators and strive to bring all parties around Risso reports that the SAA team is working closely with the table to develop solutions to trade barriers,” Risso the Southern Agricultural Council, known as CAS, and explains. "SAA is unique in its ability to bring gov- the North American Biotech Initiative to address low-level ernments, regulators and seed industry representa- presence issues. Risso says the working group is learning tives together to discuss and move forward issues about the adoption level of new breeding techniques and of importance. how regulations are being proposed in Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, United States and “If you or your company want to get involved in working Uruguay. to fi nd solutions to these challenges, we welcome your participation. All you need to do is be a member of your “One of our biggest concerns is that seed treatment might national seed association and ask to join the SAA discus- become a trade barrier,” says Jerry Monk, SAA president. sions. The more participation we have, the better the seed “To best address this, we are developing two databases, industry will be.” Julie Deering one that compiles and answers the most frequently asked

FP Genetics, along with our Western Canadian seed growers, would like to thank Ron DePauw for his contributions to the wheat industry over his career.

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JULY 2014 27 Canadian Seed Growers' Association and Canadian Seed Trade Association ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

CSGA Award Winner CSGA Award Winner

AWARD AWARD Robertson Associate Award Robertson Associate Award

COMPANY COMPANY Super Seed Inc., which is now man- Huvenaars Seed Farms Ltd. aged by his son Allen CAREER HIGHLIGHTS Beautiful Plain Farms Ltd, which is now Have been producing a pedigreed managed by his son Dean seed crop since 1979 and hybrid canola seed has been a mainstay at the RODNEY CAREER HIGHLIGHT JOHN AND LISA farm. They also built a system for seed ALTWASSER Became one of the early producers of HUVENAARS cleaning, loading and treating. Yellow Grass, lentils in Saskatchewan and processed Hays, Alberta Saskatchewan and bagged lentils for export. INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENTS • Alberta Seed Growers' Association INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENTS • SeCan Association • Western Canadian Wheat Growers • SeedNet Inc. Association, formerly known as the Palliser Wheat Growers • Saskatchewan Flax Growers • Saskatchewan Pulse Growers CSGA Award Winner

AWARD Honorary Life Award CSGA Award Winner COMPANY AWARD National Soil Conservation Program Robertson Associate Award CAREER HIGHLIGHT COMPANY Dedicated 41 years to the National Soil Retired Conservation Program and was heavily involved in the seed industry during CAREER HIGHLIGHTS MIKE MCAVOY that time. Laxdal has been a mover and shaker in Regina, the industry. He's been instrumental Saskatchewan INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENTS in starting Lakeside Seeds, Midwest • Canadian Seed Growers' Association GLEN LAXDAL Grain Co., Lakeside Processors Ltd., board member Wynyard, Lakeside Pulses and Special Crops Ltd. • Saskatchewan Seed Growers' Saskatchewan and Lakeside Global Grains Ltd. Association advisor to the board • University of Saskatchewan Crop INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENTS Development Centre secretary • Saskatchewan Seed Growers Association board member

28 ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS

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AWARD AWARD Honorary Life Award Honorary Life Award

COMPANY COMPANY Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Newfield Seeds

CAREER HIGHLIGHT The Canadian Seed Institute During his 25-year career with AAFC, Gehl served as officer-in-charge and CAREER HIGHLIGHTS head of the Seed Increase Unit at Ag Stoner worked for 20 years managing DAVID GEHL Canada's Experimental Farm. KEN STONER Newfield Seeds multiplication pro- Indian Head, Nipawin, gram. When it was sold, Stoner began Saskatchewan INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENTS Saskatchewan working for CSI and assisted facilities • Oversaw the production of more than in the processing, importing and 1,000 Breeder Plots. testing of pedigreed seed. • Obtained more than 600 Breeder Seed Certificates for varieties of more INDUSTRY INVOLVEMENTS than three dozen crop kinds. • Canadian Seed Trade Association's • Coordinated plant breeding winter Forage Seed Committee nursery activities for AAFC. • Saskatchewan Forage Advisory Committee OTHER • Expert Committee for Forage Crops Enjoys spending time with family and • Saskatchewan Forage Council friends, cycling, cross-country skiing, gardening, puttering in his garage and OTHER listening to music. • Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists • Nipawin Chamber of Commerce • District Chamber of Commerce • Nipawin Evergreen Centre

CSTA Award Winner

AWARD guided CSTA through the first attempt to get Honorary Life Membership Award legislation through Parliament in 1999, and then through consultation in 2004. COMPANY • Helped implement the Authorized Exporter Seed Trade Consulting and Importer Programs. • Guided CSTA through the establishment of CAREER HIGHLIGHT the Canadian Seed Institute. Serving as the executive vice- • Represented CSTA at the International Seed president, Leask guided CSTA for more Federation for 26 years. than 27 years. Both nationally and • Represented the international seed sector BILL LEASK internationally, he was the voice of the at the United Nations Convention on Ottawa, Canadian seed industry. Biological Diversity and the associated Ontario Biosafety Protocol, the North American Plant INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENTS Protection Organization and the Codex • Helped drive the reform of Canada's Alimentarius. variety registration system. • Was a founding director of the Seed • Represented private sector plant Association of the Americas. breeders on the Minister's Advisory Committee on Plant Breeders' Rights. OTHER • Advocated for amendments to Plant Enjoys travelling, gardening and spending Breeders' Rights in Canada and time with family.

30 CSTA Award Winner

AWARD • Worked quietly as the “PBR policeman” to track Seed Achievement Award down PBR infringers who steal the inventions of plant breeders for their own profi t, with the help COMPANY of the Canadian Plant Technology Agency. AgGenuity Consulting Inc. • Served on CSTA's Intellectual Property Committee • Was the primary author of CSTA's current intellec- CAREER HIGHLIGHT tual property textbook. After establishing his own consulting fi rm, • Assessed the use of certifi ed seed in selected AgGenuity, in 2001, Hadley quantifi ed the contri- countries around the world. LORNE HADLEY bution of Canada's seed industry to the Canadian Landis, economy. The seed industry and even government OTHER Saskatchewan departments began regularly quoting his fi gure of A graduate of the University of Saskatchewan with $3.95 billion. a bachelor's in Agricultural Economics, Hadley still maintains the farm he grew up on in Landis. He INDUSTRY ACHIEVEMENTS got his start in the seed business fi rst working with • Coordinated a campaign in 2013 to make provin- Canadian Seed Coaters and then as Saskatchewan cial government Ministers and departments aware territorial manager with UGG Proven Seeds. of the need for amendments to Plant Breeders' Rights.

WHERE It’s difficult to highlight and consolidate the achievements of CSGA and CSTA’s award winners ON THE down to just a few pages. So the editors of Germination have made their full biographies WEB available online. Check them out at germination.ca/2014awards.

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JULY 2014 31 A SERIES OF DEDICATED REPORTS DESIGNED TO SHARE BUSINESS-CRITICAL INFORMATION WITH SEED GROWERS ON SEED CROP INSPECTION IN 2014.

From the Field At this time, all of the certification application deadlines have passed and the paperwork necessary for field inspection should be filed. Germination talks with inspectors to see how things are going on their end.

2014 MARKS THE first year that seed growers had to designate an Authorized Seed Crop Inspection Service (ASCIS) on their application. This requirement was brought about at the direction of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.

Danielle Markert, a certified crop adviser and lead inspector with Agri-FX Inc., believes that the rollout of the new alternative inspection service has gone pretty well. “Both CFIA and the Canadian Seed Growers’ Association have done a good job at providing lots of information to inspectors and ASCIS’s regarding the inspection process, what is expected of them and technical support,” says Markert, who is also a professional agrologist based in Magrath, Alta. Authorized seed inspectors are just getting into the heavy inspection period. All eyes are watching.

However, Markert says one of the challenges in the training of new Scheffel says that his team won’t hurdles that seed growers have had inspectors prior to spring,” he says. really know how the alternative ser- to overcome is learning how to use “Basically, CFIA was late in offering vice delivery is going until a couple the new online application system. classroom training for the spring of hundred inspections are done. When “The screen times out if it has been 2014. In certain regions, it did not it’s all said and done, he expects that inactive for too long, which causes allocate enough training spots to there will be about 16,000 inspection some people to lose information and meet the requirements of the ASCIS.” applications. then they have to re-input it,” she says. “As a solution, some growers Germination had the opportunity to Admittedly, Scheffel says they are printing off a copy of the online catch up with Michael Scheffel, CFIA weren’t prepared to train the large application, filling it in by hand, and Seed Section national manager. number of people who had requested then transferring that information “Today [June 25] will be the first day field inspection training. “We had back to the online copy.” for seed crop inspection,” he says, way more people asking for training noting that the field to be inspected than we had the capacity to train,” he Gordon Butcher, CEO of AgCall — is a fall rye field in southern Alberta. says. “But we have more than enough which created CropInspect, agrees “All of the implementation work that licensed crop inspectors to get the with Markert. “Progress is being we’ve done for the past 28 months job done. This past year, we trained made; however, there were many really starts today.” more than 150 individuals and more

32 SUPPORTED BY:

than 180 individuals are licensed a positive move, we just need to get — some of which are former CFIA through the first year or two.” employees who didn’t need training. I expect about another 100 individu- Markert, who is inspecting fields in als to be licensed in the next three southern Alberta and the southern weeks and be able to do inspections “All of the implementation part of British Columbia, says it's yet this summer.” work that we’ve done for too early to know for sure how this season is going to go, but she thinks Creating an Inspector Community the past 28 months really that everyone is trying to make the The creation of CropInspect is a starts today.” transition as easy as possible. direct result of CFIA’s decision to outsource seed crop inspection — Michael Scheffel Scheffel says come November, CFIA services to licensed inspectors. will evaluate both the program and CropInspect is made up of a team inspectors. “Throughout the season, of more than 60 trained inspec- CFIA will inspect 10 per cent of tors across Canada and is designed the fields that licensed inspectors to deliver dependable seed crop inspect,” he says. “We will compare inspection services to the Canadian CSGA,” he says. “There has been CFIA results with the results from seed industry from British Columbia some price shock by a few growers; inspectors and look at similarities and to the Atlantic provinces. however, the majority realize that differences and provide feedback. change is necessary.” “Our goal was to help make seed “We’ll also sit down face-to-face growers transition into the new Think of the changes with the long- with all 24 quality managers of the seed crop inspection framework term in mind. “The new system Authorized Seed Crop Inspection as smooth as possible,” says Laurie is a positive change,” says Kevin Services and have a two-way con- Hayes, project manager for AgCall’s Zaychuk, crop inspection adminis- versation. This will be a chance for CropInspect service. Hayes man- trator for 20/20 Seed Labs. “While us to share our observations, as well ages AgCall’s licensed crop inspec- we’re still in the first year, there are as an opportunity for them to give tors and the day-to-day operations some improvements to be made, us feedback. Was the training ade- of CropInspect from her office in such as data transfer from CSGA to quate? Are there aspects that need Saskatoon, Sask. inspectors. One of the challenges to be changed or modified? Next growers have is the varying levels year, we’ll tweak the program based Butcher explains that the CropInspect of computer use and their ability to on feedback, train more inspectors website allows growers to create an adapt to the new system. I believe it’s and add new crops to the mix.” account online, build a quote, book an inspection, issue an invoice and make a payment. But “some growers have been unclear on the steps WHERE For complete information about the Canadian Food Inspection Agency’s Seed Program Quality System ON THE Procedure and roles and responsibilities regarding the Authorized Seed Crop Inspection Services, visit necessary to sign up with an ASCIS tinyurl.com/inspection-gc-ca. and tried to sign their fields up with WEB

JULY 2014 33 CSGA

ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

OFTEN TIMES, individuals in the seed industry get asked Cost differences will vary geographically by crop and questions about the differences between certified seed and by the variety selected for comparison. So it’s important farm-saved seed. The Canadian Seed Growers’ Association to consider all the benefits of certified seed versus just answers a few of these common questions. the retail price of certified seed.

Q. Is certified seed more expensive than bin-run or Q. I’ve been using my own farm-saved seed for years, farm-saved seed? why should I invest in certified seed? A. The cost difference between certified seed and bin- A. If you invest in certified seed, you’re not just getting run or farm-saved seed is a function of multiple factors. a proven, quality product — you’re putting money back When comparing bin-run seed costs to certified seed, into the research and development of new and advanced consider the “hidden” costs of keeping bin-run seed seed varieties. This brings value to your farm, gives you compared to the yield, quality and purity advantages of more choices, generates jobs in agriculture and stimulates certified seed. Hidden costs might include: the Canadian economy. With yields in canola increasing • Opportunity cost of losing grain sale value 27 per cent and corn increasing almost 60 per cent during • Storage and interest the past 15 years, the proof is in your fields. • Trucking to seed cleaner • Trucking back to farm Q. How is certified seed different than common or • Labour (loading, unloading, management) bin-run seed? • Shrinkage/clean-out A. Common seed or bin-run seed is produced without any • Seed testing for germination and diseases such as officially recognized third-party inspections to confirm fusarium varietal purity, identity or quality, whereas certified seed undergoes rigorous oversight during production, harvesting and conditioning. Certified seed must pass inspections by accredited personnel as a crop in the field and again as seed at testing labs and seed cleaning establishments to ensure that it meets CSGA and Canadian Food Inspection Agency requirements for varietal identity, germination and freedom from impurities.

Certified seed offers new and improved genetics, better yields, clean seed, quality assurance, and varietal purity, among many other benefits. It also provides substance behind your word. The blue tag is your proof — grain buyers know they're getting exactly what you say when they see the blue certified seed tag.

For more information about certified seed, visit seedgrowers.ca.

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CSAAC RECOGNIZES OUTSTANDING SEED ANALYSTS

TO BEST HONOUR MEMBERS OF THE ductive and efficient relationships. Commercial Seed Analysts Association Stoner's knowledge and expertise have of Canada who promote excep- been of great benefi t to CSAAC and the tional leadership and professional- Canadian seed industry. ism, the association established the Outstanding Achievement Award. The Developing a passion early in life for fi rst award, given in 2006, recog- agriculture, Stoner worked on the home nized the late Marie Greeniaus. The and neighbouring farms in Ontario. award was later renamed the Marie To further his education, he enrolled Greeniaus Award. This year’s award at the University of Guelph in Crop recipient is Gail Livingstone. Science and graduated in 1979. While working at the university seed farm, Livingstone, who has been in the seed he was introduced to pedigreed seed testing industry for 56 years, started multiplication. After graduation, Stoner her career at the Department of moved to Saskatchewan to work at Agriculture in the Toronto Laboratory Newfield Seeds in Nipawin. For the CSAAC recognizes Ken Stoner of Saskatchewan as a seed analyst. In 1964, she left with the 2014 Honorary Member Award. next 20 years, he worked with growers the government laboratory to work across Western Canada and managed as a seed analyst for her father’s seed Newfield Seeds' seed multiplication company. Then, two decades later, program. Later, he became a plant Livingstone opened her own business, breeders assistant and assistant man- Livingstone Seed Lab, and has been aging director. In 1999, Stoner changed running it ever since. careers, moving to the Canadian Seed Institute, but stayed in the seed indus- She joined CSAAC in 1964 and this is try assisting facilities to process, import her 50th year paying dues. She has held and test pedigreed seed. positions on all committees including secretary, treasurer and membership During his career, Stoner has been chair. Additionally, Livingstone served active in industry and professional as president for two terms. During this associations serving on CSTA's Forage time, her father was also president of Seed Committee for a number of the Canadian Seed Trade Association. years. Provincially, he served on This is the only time a father and daugh- the Saskatchewan Forage Advisory ter have held these positions together. For her exceptional leadership, Gail Livingstone Committee, and federally, he served is the recipient of CSAAC's 2014 Outstanding Achievement Award. on the Expert Committee for Forage Today, Livingstone serves as CSAAC's Crops. Stoner was also involved with historian and a member the Ethics instrumental in helping CSAAC become the formation of the Saskatchewan Committee. She has helped organize the reputable organization that it is Forage Council and served as chairper- numerous CSAAC annual meetings and today. son for several years. He served on the workshops. She has also been very branch and provincial councils of the involved with the CSTA and initiated Another individual who is to be com- Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists in the Seed Analyst Liaison Committee. mended for his contributions to the many positions, including president of industry is Ken Stoner, the 2014 CSAAC the local branch and provincial council. Through the years, Livingstone has Honorary Member. gained a unique perspective, as she has During his career, Stoner has been hon- worked at a seed company that buys and Having been in the seed industry for oured by the Saskatchewan Institute sells seed, at a government laboratory more than 35 years, Stoner is a staunch of Agrologists with the Distinguished and running a private lab. With a wealth supporter of CSAAC and a lab advocate. Agrologist Award in 1995 and by the of knowledge and having mentored He has worked closely with laboratories, Saskatchewan Seed Growers with an many seed analysts, she has been analysts and graders to maintain pro- Honorary Life Membership in 1998.

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BILL C 18: THE MOST SIGNIFICANT PIECE OF LEGISLATION FOR SEED IN DECADES

ON DEC. 9, 2014, THE MINISTER of Agriculture and Agri- importing, exporting and labelling seed of unregistered Food Canada announced the introduction of Bill C-18, the varieties where registration is a requirement; or importing, Agricultural Growth Act, in the House of Commons. Bill advertising and selling common seed by variety name. C-18 proposes to amend nine pieces of federal legislation, including the Seeds Act, the Agriculture and Agri-Food The largest part of Bill C-18 contains proposed amendments Monetary Penalties Act and the Plant Breeders’ Rights Act. to Canada’s Plant Breeders’ Rights legislation, bringing it into compliance with the most recent convention of the Union For the seed industry, this is one of the most significant for the Protection of New Plant Varieties (UPOV 1991). In pieces of legislation to be introduced in decades. Just short, Bill C-18: before Parliament recessed for the summer, Bill C-18 passed through second reading and has been referred to the • Expands the duration of Plant Breeders' Rights from 18 House of Commons Standing Committee on Agriculture years for agricultural crops to 20 years. and Agri-Food. • Expands the scope of Plant Breeders’ Rights, requiring With the goal of modernizing Canadian legislation on the authorization of the breeder in order to produce, the foundation of science, innovation and international reproduce, condition, import and export propagating standards, Bill C-18 proposes to amend three pieces of material (seed). Stocking of seed for sale would also legislation that directly impact for the seed sector. require the authority of the breeder; as would the repeated use of the material (for example to make As it applies to the Seed Act, Bill C-18 proposes to: hybrids).

• Authorize inspectors to order the destruction or removal • Provides a mandatory exception to Plant Breeders’ of imports that don’t meet Canadian legal requirements. Rights, which ensures that protected material can be used for research and plant breeding. • Allow the Minister to take into account foreign reviews for some applications, which could help to speed up • Provides an exception to Plant Breeders’ Rights to allow approvals and perhaps variety registration, without any farmers to save, store and condition grain produced negative impact on quality or safety. from protected varieties on their farms to use as seed on their own farms. Within the legislation, this is called • Allow for the incorporation of some material by reference the Farmers’ Privilege. in regulations. For the seed sector, incorporation by reference could facilitate more timely placement of • Gives the breeder the ability to be compensated based crops in the variety registration system by removing on harvested material of his/her protected variety if he/ the list of crops subject to variety registration from she didn’t have the ability to exercise the right on the regulation and just referring to the list in regulation. propagating material (e.g. seed was acquired illegally). Changing placement would then be an administrative decision with the potential to substantially speed up the • Provides provisional protection between the date of process, where it is currently very slow. For example, it application and the grant of Plant Breeders' Rights, but took more than three years to place forages and oilseed takes away the provincial protection if Plant Breeders' soybeans in Part III of the variety registration system. Rights are not granted.

Additionally, Bill C-18 proposes to amend the Agriculture The Canadian Seed Trade Association strongly supports and Agri-Food Administrative Monetary Penalties Act to the elements in Bill C-18 that apply to seed. They are all increase penalties for violations. This could result in better substantial steps toward a policy, regulatory and intellectual compliance with some of the requirements of the Seeds property environment that will foster future investment and Act. Possible examples of improved compliance include innovation.

38 ADVERTORIAL Getting Questions About Bill C-18 and Plant Breeders’ Rights? Join the Conversation with the Facts

Are you getting questions about Bill C-18: the Agricultural Growth Act, and its proposed amendments to Plant Breeders’ Rights? Are you hearing concerns, getting mixed messages? Here are some answers to frequently asked questions and concerns to help you join the conversation:

Q. How will PBR amendments benefit farmers? A. The amendments will give plant breeders the confidence to invest time and money in developing and commercializing new varieties for farmers. The amendments will also put Canada on the same footing as most other UPOV member countries, giving international plant breeders the confidence to give Canadian farmers access to their new, improved varieties. Together these two things will result in more choice for farmers as they will have access to more varieties with a wider range of characteristics, including increased productivity and attributes for specific niche markets.

Q. Will PBR amendments allow plant breeders to patent all of their material? A. Plant Breeders’ Rights (PBR) are not patents. Unlike patents, plant breeders who use PBR are required by law to allow other breeders to use their protected varieties for research and to develop new varieties. Also unlike patents, PBR allows farmers to save harvested material for use as seed on their own farms.

Q. Will PBR amendments prevent farmers from saving seed? A. Bill C-18 entrenches a “Farmers’ Privilege” in legislation. This ensures that farmers can produce, reproduce, store and condition grain from PBR protected varieties grown on their farms, to use as seed on their own farms. The sale of farm saved seed has always been illegal, and will continue to be illegal.

Q. Will PBR amendments mean that farmers will have to pay royalties on everything they plant? A. Farmers will always have choice. Just as plant breeders can choose whether or not to protect their inventions (new varieties) with PBR, farmers have the choice to not use PBR protected varieties. And there is a lot of choice. Only 91 of the 259 registered wheat varieties, 59 of the 252 registered barley varieties and 29 of the 126 registered oats varieties are protected by Plant Breeders’ Rights.

Q. Will farmers have to pay royalties on harvested grain? A. This legislation does not give breeders the ability to collect royalties on harvested grain, unless the seed was obtained illegally. In that case, the breeder can seek compensation on the harvested grain.

Q. Do PBR amendments benefit only the private sector – big companies? A 48% of all of the agricultural varieties protected under current PBR were developed at public institutions. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Universities and Provincial research facilities all receive royalties from PBR protected varieties they have developed. The amendments in Bill C-18 will also improve the investment environment for public institutions.

Q. Will PBR amendments place more liability on seed cleaners and conditioners? A. The amendments state that cleaning and conditioning for purposes of propagation cannot be done without the permission of the plant breeder unless the seed being cleaned is for planting on the grower’s own land (that is, farm-saved seed). So seed cleaners will need to be aware of which varieties have been granted rights, to ensure that permission has been obtained before cleaning seed of a protected variety.

Q. Do PBR amendments include penalties if rights are violated? A. The amendments in Bill C-18 do not spell out penalties for infringement. The provisions in the current Act state that if the plant breeder proves that there has been an infringement of his or her rights, the plant breeder is entitled to receive damages.

Need More Information? We Can Help.

CANADIAN SEED TRADE ASSOCIATION Tel: 613-829-9527 email: [email protected] www.cdnseed.org Exploring ideas and views on all aspects of the seed industry.

TRADE TANTRUM Canadian Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz lashed out at the United States EL NIÑO IMPACTS AGRICULTURAL for acting like a “schoolyard bully” on PRODUCTION trade issues, and said he sees more. Ritz Reuters Meteorological forecasts indicate a 70 promise in negotiating a bilateral trade per cent probability of El Niño occur- deal with Japan than the Trans-Pacific ring during the Northern Hemisphere’s Partnership, according to summer and an 80 per cent probability said it would take a “sea shift” for Canada during autumn or winter. Although no pre- to offer significantly more access to cise quantitative correlation between the its dairy, egg and poultry industries. occurrence of El Niño and changes in agri- The Conservative minister’s comments cultural production has been established, highlight growing challenges to completing a general pattern of changes in weather the TPP deal, which aims to lower trade conditions is given. The effect on agricul- barriers in member countries. In May, ture will depend on the timing and severity Japan said it would not abolish tariffs in of the El Niño, as well as the crop calendar five key agricultural sectors. At the begin- in a particular region. ning of June, U.S. dairy farmers threatened to oppose the pact if Japan and Sowing of the summer cereal crops begins Canada did not agree to accept substan- in March, with harvesting activities nor- tially more dairy imports. “I don’t enter- mally commencing in October. Northern tain any such thing in the near future,” Ritz parts of the United States, including the said of expanding such access. Corn Belt in the Midwest, have tended to receive below-average rains during the Among the TPP member countries, tariffs first six months of the year during an El on agricultural goods are wide-ranging. Niño episode. However, the impact on rain- For example, Japan maintains average fall variations tend to weaken in the second applied tariffs of 23 per cent on agri- half of the calendar year. Below-average cultural goods, while Malaysia applies rains early in the cropping season might tariffs of 11 per cent and Vietnam at 17 negatively impact crop growth, but a more per cent. Canada's agriculture and agri- limited impact would be expected as the food exports to TPP members include season progresses. oilseeds and oils (such as canola), pork, beef, grains, pulses, fruits and vegetables, maple syrup and processed agricultural THE EFFECT ON AGRICULTURE products. The chances of TPP reaching WILL DEPEND ON THE TIMING AND an agreement look 50:50, Ritz said. SEVERITY OF THE EL NIÑO, AS WELL AS THE CROP CALENDAR IN A PARTICULAR REGION.

40 COMPETITION SPURS RESEARCH In June, Genome Canada, in partnership with the Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF), CANADA'S DRONE ADVANTAGE are requesting applications for the 2014 Large- In Canada, unlike the United States where Scale Applied Research Project Competition: the Federal Aviation Administration heav- Genomics and Feeding the Future. The compe- ily restricts the use of drones, it’s much tition supports research projects that will create easier to collect data — so long as the new knowledge and inform public policy for drone is not out of the operator’s eyesight. Canada’s agri-food and fisheries and aquaculture Aeryon Labs president Dave Kroetsch says sectors and contribute solutions that can help the company's Skyranger quadrocopter feed the world’s growing population. runs on a rechargeable battery and can fly itself. One major market is the business of Approximately $90 million will be invested agriculture. Farmers crave data as much during a four-year period in large-scale research as bankers do. But they haven’t been able projects across Canada, each ranging from $2 to get real-time information easily. They’ve million to $10 million. Genome Canada will invest had to rely on records of the past perfor- $30 million, WGRF $5 million, and the balance of mance of their land, rather than have a investment will be obtained through co-funding perfect measure of the crop as it stands. of projects from other sources, such as industry, governments and not-for-profits. Projects will be “We produce a system that allows people selected through a rigorous international peer to get data — valuable data,” explains review process. “Genomics and genomic-related Ernie Earon of PrecisionHawk. The com- technologies in the agri-food and fisheries and pany’s fixed wing drone flies autono- aquaculture sectors can play a strong role in mously, snapping photos over planted boosting food production and international fields. When the images are analyzed, trade, raising nutritional value, reducing spoil- light green patches on the picture indicate age and ensuring food safety both in Canada and stress points on the crop. Previously, a globally,” says Pierre Meulien, president and CEO farmer would have had to walk the whole of Genome Canada. crop to find these problem areas — a task that could take hours. PrecisionHawk is working on cameras, which can ‘see’ to a plant’s sub-cellular level. That will allow APPROXIMATELY $90 MILLION WILL farmers to detect disease in a plant before BE INVESTED DURING A FOUR-YEAR it shows any visible sign and to determine which areas need more or less fertilizer. PERIOD IN LARGE-SCALE RESEARCH Canada’s drone makers stand to benefit PROJECTS, EACH RANGING FROM $2 from the fast-growing industry, but they’ll MILLION TO $10 MILLION. face increasing competition. Sophisticated drone production has been largely limited to Europe and North America, but Asia is making up for lost time — led by China, which is focusing largely on military uses.

REPORT FORECASTS GLOBAL BIOTECH TRENDS The global agricultural biotechnology market is consolidating as the top three seed manufacturing companies accounted for nearly 48 per cent of the market in 2012, according to Research and Markets' new report, “Agricultural Biotechnology Market - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends and Forecast, 2013-2019.” The report states that large players are acquiring small regional players or collaborating with research institutes or large crop growers to expand their market share and gain a competitive advantage by increasing their presence across the value chain. Major players in the market, according to Research and Markets' report, include Monsanto, DuPont, Syngenta, Bayer CropScience, Dow AgroSciences, Vilmorin, Certis USA, Evogene Ltd. and KWS SAAT AG, among others. The report also con- firms that soybeans and corn are the most widely consumed genetically modified crops globally. Rising demand for animal feed due to increasing consumption of meat is expected to drive the market for these crops. The global agri-biotech market was dominated by North American countries because of high adoption of GM crops and acceptance by consumers. Additionally, the report reveals that biotech companies are spending 15 to 20 per cent of revenues on research and development initiatives. Brazil is forecast to be the next growth engine of agri-biotech after the United States. JULY 2014 41 Keeping you informed of legislative and regulatory changes at REGULATORY ROUNDUP the provincial, national and international levels — from lawsuits to approvals to other regulatory issues affecting your business.

NATIONAL Venerate bioinsecticide for registration in Canada and Mexico. CFIA STREAMLINES REGISTRATION PROCESS The new, broad-spectrum bioinsecticide features novel FOR SOY AND FORAGE VARIETIES modes of action and is active against a wide array of chewing Regulatory changes that streamline the variety registration and sucking insects and mites. The product is non-toxic to process for new oilseed soybean and forage varieties are now fi sh, birds and most benefi cial insects including honeybees. in effect. The amendments provide a more effi cient approval According to the company, Venerate also has the advantage of a process and support faster access to innovative varieties that zero-day pre-harvest interval and an exemption from maximum are in global demand. New oilseed soybean and forage crop residue level tolerances — a measure of pesticide residue limits varieties can now be expedited. Specifi cally, pre-registration that must be met for most food crop exports. It is labelled for testing and merit assessments will no longer be required. All a wide array of crops and can be used in conventional and relevant safety assessments will continue. The amendments organic systems. included moving oilseed soybean and forage crop varieties from Part I to Part III of Schedule III. The regulatory changes have NEW TOLERANCES FOR ERGOT, SCLEROTINIA been published in Canada Gazette, Part II. AND FUSARIUM Updated tolerances for ergot and sclerotinia for most classes AGRICULTURAL GROWTH ACT REACHES of wheat took effect in Eastern Canada July 1, and will take SECOND READING effect in Western Canada Aug. 1. New tolerances for fusarium- Canada’s farming industry is one step closer to a broad suite of damaged kernels will also take effect for eastern and western new tools that federal agriculture offi cials say will help farmers food barley. The grade schedule for Canada eastern oats will remain competitive in the global marketplace and grow their be updated to more closely match that of Canada western markets at home. Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz spoke about oats. These changes are based on recommendations made the benefi ts of the Agricultural Growth Act during the second to the Canadian Grain Commission by the Western Standards reading in the House of Commons in Ottawa. According to Committee and the Eastern Standards Committee. “While Ritz, the bill signifi es a key milestone for Canada’s agricultural sclerotinia is not toxic like ergot, we keep the tolerances the sector by improving access to the latest technologies and same for both because sclerotinia is very similar in appearance modernizing nine statutes that regulate agriculture. Some of to ergot,” says Daryl Beswitherick, program manager of quality the key improvements listed by the government include stronger assurance standards for the CGC. “By keeping tolerances the intellectual property rights for plant varieties, which will enhance same for both of these grading factors, we can mitigate risk farmers’ access to new varieties, and more fl exible farmer caused by any potential confusion between the two." payment programs. Entrenched in the Agricultural Growth Act is the right of farmers to save, condition and re-plant seed that is NEW REPORT ON THE MODERNIZATION OF personally saved from crops grown on their land. CANADA'S VARIETY REGISTRATION SYSTEM The Government of Canada committed to a transformational ENLIST CORN COMES TO CANADA shift in Canadian agricultural policy, with a renewed emphasis Dow AgroSciences announced that it will conduct a managed on research and innovation, competitiveness and market and limited introduction of Enlist corn in Canada for the 2014 development. The government will continue efforts to reduce growing season. The company’s Canada Field Forward program unnecessary regulatory burdens as part of its commitment to will provide growers an exclusive opportunity to experience a science-based regulatory framework that promotes research the company’s newest technologies before they are widely and innovation and allows for an effi cient, transparent and available. Canadian regulators approved the Enlist genetic trait predictable interaction between government and industry. for corn and soybeans in 2012 and the Enlist Duo herbicide was In 2013, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC), the approved in 2013. The two products are designed to be used Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and the Canadian together, as the biotech corn is able to withstand sprays of the Grain Commission (CGC) initiated a review of the crop variety Enlist Duo herbicide, making it easier to kill weeds, according to registration system. An options paper was posted on the AAFC Dow. The company anticipates the commercial launch of Enlist website that described the current variety registration system corn in Canada in 2015 after regulatory approvals in additional in Canada and outlined four potential options for modernizing import geographies are secured. Enlist crops and the herbicide and streamlining the system. Stakeholders were then asked are still under consideration by U.S. regulators. for feedback on the options. Responses came from producers, seed companies, farm organizations, industry associations, NEW BIOINSECTICIDE SUBMITTED FOR crop marketers/handlers and exporters. Overall, 57 per cent REGISTRATION of respondents supported varying options for reform. AAFC, Marrone Bio Innovations Inc., a global provider of bio-based CFIA and CGC are reviewing these results and will notify all pest management and plant health products, has submitted stakeholders from Canada’s crop production sector in a timely

42 manner of any changes that could have an impact on Canada’s Korea will remove duties on 98.2 per cent of its tariff lines, variety registration system. covering almost all of Canada’s imports.

INTERNATIONAL EU MEMBER COUNTRIES TO DECIDE GM POLICY CANADA-KOREA FREE TRADE AGREEMENT After years of discussion, a recently-adopted accord by the Canada and the Republic of Korea have concluded negotiations European Union will allow member countries to make their for a bilateral free trade agreement that will boost trade and own decisions on whether or not to allow genetically modifi ed investment ties between the two countries, creating jobs and crops. “All member states, with the exception of Belgium opportunities for Canadians in every region of the country. The and Luxembourg, have given their agreement,” said Greek Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement, Canada’s fi rst with an Agriculture Minister Ioannis Maniatis after a meeting with Asian market, will benefi t a wide range of sectors, including his EU colleagues in the middle of June. The accord gives industrial goods, agricultural and agri-food products, wine and individual EU states the right to ban GM crops even if they have spirits, fi sh and seafood, and wood and forestry products. The already won clearance on health and safety grounds at the EU federal government says the agreement serves as a gateway level. “The new system guarantees that the member states have to Asia for Canadian businesses and workers, who are looking a choice,” added French Environment Minister Segolene Royal. to enhance their global competitiveness. It also levels the At the time of printing, the accord will now proceed to the playing fi eld for Canadian companies competing with Korea’s European Parliament for approval. other trading partners, such as the United States and the European Union, which already have free trade agreements with Korea. The FTA eliminates tariffs and reduces non-tariff measures that hinder market access for Canadian exporters and investors in Korea, bringing transparency and predictability to the business environment. Once the FTA is fully implemented,

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JULY 2014 43 An in-depth STATUSAfrica industry in both the city Beijing. According to Wu, eight THE AFRICAN Intellectual and China at large, said of the world's top 10 seed overview of Property Organization (OAPI) Wu Baoxin, director of the companies, including Pioneer became the second inter- Beijing Municipal Bureau and Monsanto, have set up the global governmental organization of Agriculture, during the research and development seed industry. and the 72nd member to join International Seed Federation's centers or branches in the city. From developing the the International Union for the 2014 World Seed Congress. seed sector in China Protection of New Varieties He noted that Beijing has to UPOV accession of Plants (UPOV) when OAPI "Advantageous resources will become China's largest seed in Africa, seed issues director general, deposited be clustered in the high-tech trade center. In 2012, Beijing's take center stage the instrument of accession area to boost the development seed industry sales exceeded around the world. June 10, 2014, to the UPOV of a modern agriculture and 10 billion yuan (US$1.61 bil- Convention and Secretary- a modern seed industry for lion), accounting for about 10 General Francis Gurry. both city and country," Wu per cent of the national total. said. "Beijing has brought The city's crop seed import UPOV provides an effective a development plan for its and export volume comprises system of plant variety seed industry into full swing. 37 per cent of China's total. protection, with the aim of Between 2010 and 2015, an encouraging the development action plan has already been of new varieties of plants, for implemented to turn the city STATUSPakistan the benefi t of society. into a center for seed and “THE UNAVAILABILITY technology innovation for of quality seed greatly hinders OAPI operates a plant variety China's seed industry, as well agricultural productivity,” protection system, which as trade and exchange in the said University of Agriculture covers the territory of its global seed industry." Faisalabad vice-chancellor 17 member states: Benin, Iqrar Ahmad Khan June 12. Burkina Faso, Cameroon, To build the city into the Central African Republic, "capital of seed breeding," He was addressing a workshop Chad, Comoros, Congo, Côte special funds worth more than on capacity building in seed d’Ivoire, Equatorial Guinea, 300 million yuan (US$48.4 technology organized. Khan Gabon, Guinea, Guinea- million) have been allocated said Pakistan was importing Bissau, Mali, Mauritania, during this period. hybrid seeds of maize, rice Niger, Senegal and Togo. and potatoes worth billions of OAPI headquarters are in Moving forward, research and rupees. This amount could be Yaoundé, Cameroon. development efforts will focus saved by strengthening the on 16 advantageous species or seed industry and farmers’ “The accession of OAPI is varieties in the four major fi elds. cooperatives, Khan said, a milestone in the history of explaining the use of certifi ed UPOV and promises to help "Beijing leads the country seeds was only 20 per cent strengthen the system of in seed breeding research and that most farmers depend plant variety protection around and development," Wu said. on uncertifi ed seed. the world,” Gurry says. "Every year, the city cultivates more than 400 new varieties In 2012, seed demand for of grain and vegetables and various crops was 1.5 million STATUSChina the new varieties of major tons but Khan said farmers BEIJING IS planning to crops account for about 10 were short 1.14 million tons. build a national seed Silicon per cent of the national total." The lack of quality seed, Valley in its Tongzhou District, machinery and horse power with the aim of fueling the Three of China's top 10 seed in Pakistan greatly hampers development of the seed companies are based in improvement in agricultural

44 production, he said, noting He said lack of trained between producers and the field of seed certification; that the UAF set up a center manpower in the seed distributors exists. Couple increasing awareness among for research in seed quality. industry was also a hurdle to those items with a weak farmers about the importance He said the university would increased productivity. UAF financial structure to support of quality seed; and improving soon launch a degree in seed is making an all-out effort to production and distribution access to financial resources sciences. provide the trained manpower and the problems add up. for farmers and business in this regard, Basra said. operators in the value chain. Federal Seed Certification and To help tackle these issues, Registration director general, Seed Association of Pakistan six organizations have teamed With this collaboration, rice Shakeel Ahmad Khan, said chairman Salman Mahmood up to promote the production production in Thailand can the Pakistan Seed Academy Khan stressed the role of of high-quality rice seeds. advance and generate signifi- would strengthen public-private national seed companies in The collaborating agencies cant income for farmers, as partnerships in seed innovation. Pakistan. include: well as increase the competitiveness of the rice industry Nominated as president of the The Pakistan Seed Academy • Rice Department in the global market, Koanan- forum, Khan said the academy is an initiative of the University • The Bank for Agriculture takool says. would develop human of Agriculture Faisalabad and and Agricultural resources in seed technology, Federal Seed Certification Cooperatives bringing together stakeholders and Registration Department, • The Thai Rice Foundation from national and multinational joined by Punjab Seed Cor- under Royal Patronage seed companies, public poration, Seed Association of • The National Science seed sectors and farmers Pakistan, Crop Life Pakistan Technology and Innovation associations so that their and Farmers Association of Policy Office problems can be solved Pakistan. • The Agricultural Research through collaboration. Development Agency • The National Science and Faculty of Agriculture dean STATUSThailand Technology Development Muhammad Arsahd called THE SHORTAGE of high- Agency (NSTDA). for action to ensure the quality rice seed is one of the availability of quality seed so major problems faced by The six organizations will that agricultural productivity farmers in Thailand, as it work together to address could be improved. He said affects the production and these problems based their that for sustainable agricultural quality of rice grains entering strengths and expertise that growth and food security, the market. each body brings to the table. quality seed should be a top priority. Of the demand for rice seed, Our objective is to develop only 40 per cent is met, which the network of rice-seed Punjab Seed Corporation leads to production problems producers and distributors; managing director Khaqan such as low yield and upgrade the production Babar said the corporation inconsistent and low-quality and certification systems was committed to supplying rice grains. for high-quality seed; and high-quality seeds at better meet the demand for affordable prices to farmers. Rice seed growers have rice seed, says Thaweesak trouble accessing elite lines Koanantakool, NSTDA Crop Physiology Department and master seeds. There's president. chairman Shahzad Basra a lack of seed-production said with the rapid growth of knowledge among farmers Activities to be undertaken the private seed sector, the and a shortage of inspectors will include launching a seed number of companies had to certify high-quality seed. production training program reached 766. Additionally, a disconnect and boosting human capital in

JULY 2014 45 Designed for seed professionals, Industry News delivers people, INDUSTRY NEWS industry, business and product news you need to know. Submissions are welcome. Email us at [email protected].

PEOPLE NEWS PRODUCT NEWS The Saskatchewan Barley Development Commission Bayer CropScience announced that its new seed lubricant, (SBDC) welcomes Jillian McDonald as its new executive called Fluency Agent, is available for use by growers through director. McDonald has been involved in a variety of areas seed companies in Canada. Fluency Agent is designed to in the agriculture industry for the past 10 years, and brings a replace standard talc and graphite seed lubricants. The use strong background in research, international trade, business of this farmer-applied seed ﬂ ow lubricant with neonicotinoid- development and communications. Previously, she worked with treated corn and soybean seeds is required by Health Canada’s the Saskatchewan Trade and Export Partnership, operating Pest Management Regulatory Agency during the 2014 seeding a private consulting company and also as a lecturer and season. Fluency Agent helps reduce dust released and the researcher at the University of Saskatchewan in the College of potential risk of exposure to pollinators from treated seeds Agriculture. during the seeding process.

The Canadian International Grains Institute has hired JoAnne Syngenta Canada Inc. registered Cruiser 5FS seed treatment, Buth as CEO, effective Aug. 11. She will take the reins from offering growers the convenience of applying Cruiser 5FS seed Earl Geddes who will retire Sept. 8, 2014. Previously, Buth was treatment on-farm, using a closed-system treater for control of with the Canola Council of Canada, serving as vice-president pea leaf weevils and wireworms. This registration allows growers from 1999 to 2007 and president from 2007 to 2012. Buth has to apply the Group 4 seed treatment to wheat, barley, rye, also served on many agriculture advisory committees in private triticale, buckwheat, millet, dry peas, chickpeas, lentils, lupins industry and government. She was appointed to the Canadian and fava bean seed. According to Syngenta, Cruiser 5FS seed Senate in January 2012 where her extensive knowledge of treatment effectively protects seed and seedlings from insect agriculture was a strong attribute. pests, ensuring that plants get off to a healthy, vigourous start.

The Alberta Wheat Commission announced that Tom Steve Engage Agro and Heads Up Plant Protectants entered into has joined the organization as its new general manager. Steve a formal exclusive marketing and distribution agreement will work toward building on the organization’s strategic plan for Canada. Under this agreement, Engage will work with and focus on enhancing Alberta’s wheat industry. Most recently, Heads Up Plant Protectants to execute sales, marketing and Steve worked with the newly formed Saskatchewan wheat distribution of Heads Up seed treatments in Canada across and barley commissions, directing the activities of these two all of the registered crops. According to the companies, Heads organizations to support their goals and objectives. Up provides season-long protection and results in healthier, stronger plants with an improved stand and is registered for use Winnipeg-based Haplotech, a privately owned and independent on soybeans, potatoes and dry beans. The companies are also technical service provider in the area of plant breeding, has working to expand the label. hired Roger Watts to assume responsibilities in business development and project management. Watts will take the AgriCoat has introduced a new organic seed treatment that it lead on several new projects including P3 Hybrids programs says improves protection against fungal root decay. Available in wheat and canola. Most recently, Watts held the position of for the North American market, AgriCoat’s NATURAL III is a senior research associate with DuPont Pioneer. registered organic seed treatment, which provides a solution to soil disease pressure in spinach, tomato, pepper, cucumber Arysta LifeScience North America has hired Kevin Kirkup and other important vegetable crops. The active ingredient, as its new territory sales manager for the company’s western registered as a biological fungicide, colonizes the root system Manitoba region. Previously, Kirkup served as a sales and protects against harmful fungi. Suitable for organic and agronomist for Cargill and Pembina Co-op, where he provided conventional vegetable production, NATURAL III improves agronomic advice and sold crop inputs. fungicidal activity, which can result in better stands and increased yields. Dow AgroSciences announced a new leadership structure for businesses in North America as the company continues Cibus Global's ﬁ rst commercial product, SU Canola to implement its growth strategy. Rajan Gajaria has been (Sulfonylurea-tolerant), has received plant novel trait approval promoted to the new position of global leader of North America by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Health Canada. and Latin America. Gajaria succeeds Stan Howell, who has With this regulatory approval, Cibus can fully commercialize been named global general manager for AgroFresh, a Dow this product in Canada. Cibus SU Canola is an alternative business that is a global leader in advanced proprietary weed control strategy that provides farmers with stewardship technologies for the horticulture and agronomic markets. options to deal with weed resistance. “Cibus’ SU herbicide-

46 tolerant system controls glyphosate-resistant weeds, such BUSINESS NEWS as pigweed, and is an excellent crop rotational partner for Canterra Seeds works to increase its internal research and glyphosate-tolerant soybeans,” says David Voss, vice-president product development program. “In 2014, we will test fi ve times as of commercial development for Cibus. many potential varieties as in 2013, including material from the very early stages of variety development,” says Erin Armstrong, Syngenta Canada Inc. launched Vibrance Maxx seed director of research and product development at Canterra Seeds. treatment, a combination of Apron Maxx RTA and Vibrance, The company also plans to run its own variety registration trials for use on peas, lentils and chickpeas. Vibrance Maxx seed for the fi rst time this year, in addition to entering key lines into the treatment provides control of early-season diseases, including publicly coordinated trials. Armstrong notes that cereals continue Rhizoctonia, to help ensure healthy stand establishment. to comprise the majority of the varieties evaluated, and expects Vibrance Maxx controls seed decay, seedling blight, damping- farmers to see the first of these products in the spring of 2016. off caused by Rhizoctonia soliani and post-emergent damping- off. This product also helps manage soil-borne disease NorthStar Genetics appointed FP Genetics to manage seed pressures, which are often associated with short rotations and production and logistics for the Saskatchewan soybean seed increased soil conservation practices. For growers who require market. The early-maturing NorthStar varieties NSC Moosomin control of insects, such as pea leaf weevil and wireworms, RR2Y, NSC Vito RR2Y and NSC Reston RR2Y is the focal point Vibrance Maxx can be mixed with Cruiser 5FS. The Cruiser for production in 2014 and the objective is to produce enough 5FS product can be mixed and applied on-farm using a closed- local seed to meet farm demand in the future. “This agreement system treater. with NorthStar Genetics creates a partnership that will deliver the best soybean genetics to Saskatchewan farmers,” says Rod Agrium Inc. announced that its precision agriculture offering Merryweather, FP Genetics CEO. “Seed growers will also benefi t will be re-branded as Echelon, formerly NutriScription HD. because soybeans are an ideal rotational crop and will help us Agrium’s North American-based crop production services produce even better cereal crops.” retail business provides precision agriculture services on more than 15 million acres throughout North America. According Lallemand Plant Care collaborates with BrettYoung Seeds to the company, Echelon will include best-in-class solutions Limited in the North American ag-biological product markets. for precision soil sampling, variable-rate nutrient and seeding Lallemand Plant Care has acquired the intellectual property recommendations, yield data analysis, weather monitoring, rights and associated assets related to the biological products precision fi eld scouting and tissue sampling, aerial imagery portfolio of BrettYoung, including the BioBoost line of products. analysis, record-keeping and reporting. Echelon’s compatibility BrettYoung will continue to serve its customers as the exclusive with most major equipment and controller manufacturers enables growers to access and act on their data from one system. Echelon is available in Krauter the United States and Canada. Solutions For the fi rst time, growers and dealers saw the new 2016 Seed Hawk Seeding • Climate-Controlled Storage System, which will be available in • Growth Chambers spring 2015, at Canada's Farm Progress Show 2014 in Regina, Sask. The new • New & Retrofitted Systems system offers growers more precise • Our patent-pending and effi cient seeding. With exceptional metering accuracy and wireless blockage control, the 2016 Seed Hawk Your Seed is in Seeding System features new standard technology, such as tanks with up Good Hands to 980-bushel capacity, including a fourth tank, larger tires for even better fl otation, and tool bars as wide as 84 feet carrying the outperforming Seed Contact us Today! [email protected] Hawk opener. Ask for Mike at 800-992-2824 www.krautersolutions.com

JULY 2014 47 distributor of these products. Lallemand and BrettYoung will Monsanto Canada released the Weed ID App, an innovative extend the current range of biological products distributed by weed identifi cation tool for use in Canada. The app hosts BrettYoung through new solutions developed by Lallemand. a library of more than 48 weeds, each accompanied by high-resolution images and detailed descriptions. It uses Compass Minerals expanded its position in the agricultural characteristics like growth stage, shape and colour to categorize fertilizer market through the acquisition of Wolf Trax Inc., a each weed and narrow search results. “The farming landscape global plant nutrition company. “We are excited about this is changing, and Monsanto aims to provide innovative solutions opportunity and look forward to fuelling the growth that Wolf to help farmers adapt to this change,” says Jenna Book, crop Trax has demonstrated,” says Keith Espelien, Compass Minerals protection marketing manager for Monsanto Canada. “The Weed specialty fertilizer senior vice-president. “It’s important to ID App is an easy-to-use, informative tool that farmers can use emphasize that business continues as usual. Fertilizer dealers every day to support their weed management strategy.” can continue to access Wolf Trax products through their traditional distribution channels.” CWB has begun construction of its fi rst state-of-the-art grain elevator in Bloom, Man. The elevator is expected to be ready Viterra Inc. intends to build a high throughput grain elevator to receive grain for the 2015 harvest. Once completed, the at Kindersley, Sask. The new facility will have a storage capacity facility will feature industry-leading railcar loading times and of 34,000 metrics tonnes and a 108-railcar spot. “Viterra has a 33,900 metric tonnes of storage. The new elevator will feature long history of serving farm customers in the Kindersley area, a 17,400 metric tonnes workhouse with cleaning facilities, and we are pleased to build on this relationship through a new and 16,500 metric tonnes of steel storage capacity. A 130-car state-of-the-art facility,” says Kyle Jeworski, Viterra’s president loop track will facilitate fast and effi cient car loading at up and CEO for North America. “This project supports our ongoing to 60,000 bushels per hour. The elevator will be serviced by strategy to optimize our footprint, and ideally positions us CN Railway’s mainline. The building of this elevator marks to provide our customers with expert advice and the best CWB’s fi rst construction of a grain-handling facility and adds marketing opportunities domestically and around the world.” to the company’s growing asset network that includes Mission

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Monsanto Company is a member of Excellence Through Stewardship® (ETS). Monsanto products are commercialized in accordance with ETS Product Launch Stewardship Guidance, and in compliance with Monsanto’s Policy for Commercialization of Biotechnology- Derived Plant Products in Commodity Crops. This product has been approved for import into key export markets with functioning regulatory systems. Any crop or material produced from this product can only be exported to, or used, processed or sold in countries where all necessary regulatory approvals have been granted. It is a violation of national and international law to move material containing biotech traits across boundaries into nations where import is not permitted. Growers should talk to their grain handler or product purchaser to confirm their buying position for this product. Excellence Through Stewardship® is a registered trademark of Excellence Through Stewardship. ALWAYS READ AND FOLLOW PESTICIDE LABEL DIRECTIONS. Roundup Ready® crops contain genes that confer tolerance to glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides. Roundup® brand agricultural herbicides will kill crops that are not tolerant to glyphosate. Genuity and Design®, Genuity®, Roundup Ready® and Roundup® are registered trademarks of Monsanto Technology LLC, Monsanto Canada, Inc. licensee. ©2013 Monsanto Canada Inc. Proven® Seed is a registered trademark of Crop Production Services (Canada) Inc. CPS CROP PRODUCTION SERVICES and Design is a registered trademark of Crop Production Services, Inc.

48 Stand up, be proud

An open letter to Canadian ag

When Greg Stewart retired as FCC President and CEO, he put his heart into this letter challenging all of us who work in agriculture to speak positively and tell the real story of ag. Reading it helps explain why FCC launched Ag More Than Ever, and why we remain so strongly committed to the cause.

Agriculture matters to this country, and there’s absolutely no question in my mind that the future for Canadian agriculture is bright. Agriculture More Than Ever is an industry cause The industry is thriving, family farms are prospering and I see incredible powered by more than amounts of optimism, pride and passion across the country. And with 300 partner organizations this success comes a responsibility – an obligation to this industry to let and 450 agvocates committed everyone else in on the secret, which is this: even though it’s sometimes to speaking up and speaking tempting to downplay your success by saying how tough farming is, you positively for our industry. know in your hearts you’d never dream of doing anything else. Deep down, you’re intensely proud of what you do, and it’s time to quit hiding how successful this industry really is.

It’s our obligation to make our voices heard about where the industry is heading because believe me, if agriculture doesn’t take control of its own destiny, somebody else will. So if you’re benefitting from ag, you have an obligation to give back by driving the outcome, rather than waiting to be told what to do by someone who doesn’t fully understand or appreciate the industry. That means standing up and telling the truth about Canadian agriculture, because right now, that’s just not happening enough.

So let’s take a deep breath and say it out loud together: Agriculture is the best industry in the world. We’re honoured to be part of it. We can only hope that our children find the same fulfilment from whatever path they choose in life. We’re incredibly proud of what we do. And yes. We want the Canadian public to be proud of our success, too.

Short of fulfilling my childhood dream of being a farmer, my career in agriculture has been the best ride I could have imagined. I can’t help being excited for the future of this industry.

I’m forever grateful for the opportunity I have had to serve this amazing industry and the wonderful people in it. Thank you.

I wish you all great success. Stand up and be proud – you’ve earned it.

FCC is a proud partner of this cause.

Greg Stewart AgMoreThanEver.ca Terminal in Thunder Bay, Les Elevateurs des Trois-Rivieres provincial governments will provide a combined $20 million in Quebec, as well as a minority interest in Prairie West toward projects as part of the new Grain Innovation Hub, Terminal. supplemented by additional funding from industry partners expected to bring the total investment to more than $33 million. The Grain Innovation Hub will help improve production, INDUSTRY NEWS processing and value-added uses for cereals, oilseeds and The Canadian Wheat Alliance (CWA) and the International pulses through research and other initiatives. Governments Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) will will work with stakeholders throughout the grain industry to collaborate on research to provide farmers in Canada and in identify and pursue suitable projects that elevate grain-based developing countries access to stronger, more resistant durum opportunities to a global scale. wheat. The research represents an opportunity to improve durum wheat’s resistance to diseases of concern to CIMMYT The Canadian government is investing more than $230,000 in and CWA, while providing economic benefi ts for wheat farmers. the Canadian Special Crops Association to increase export Researchers will seek to reduce the effects of wheat rust sales of special crops and increase the competitiveness of the diseases and of Fusarium head blight, a cause of dangerous mustard and sunfl ower seed industries. The investment will help toxins in grain, by increasing durum wheat’s resistance to these the CSCA promote pulses and special crops on trade missions fungal diseases, leveraging the expertise of CWA in wheat and at international trade shows, as well as advocate for genomics approaches and CIMMYT’s expertise in fi eld trials. favourable policies that will position Canada as a world leader and supplier of choice. The Canadian federal and Manitoba provincial governments, the grain industry, researchers, farm organizations and other Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada has launched a renewed stakeholders will invest substantial resources during the next fi ve-year Canadian Agricultural Adaptation Program (CAAP) fi ve years to solidify Manitoba’s place as a national leader in to help the sector continue to adapt and remain competitive. grain research, production and processing. The federal and Under CAAP (2014-2019), more than $50 million will be available

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50 for investments in industry-led projects that will help the sector The University of Guelph has received a $750,000 donation from seize opportunities, respond to emerging issues, and investigate Bayer CropScience to help support and preserve pollinator and pilot approaches to deal with new and ongoing challenges. health through sustainable pest management. The funds will go The renewed program will enable the agricultural industry toward supporting the creation of the Centre for Benefi cial Insect to proactively tap into opportunities and tackle unforeseen Health through the School of Environmental Sciences. The centre challenges. will emphasize sustainable pest management in agriculture, including work on fi eld and horticultural crops, greenhouse The Alberta Wheat Commission plans to invest $1.5 million production, insecticide resistance and biological insect control. into 10 agronomic and breeding/genetic research projects as part of the Agriculture Funding Consortium — a group of 14 DuPont Pioneer received a combined grant of $1 million from funding organizations that have partnered together to collaborate two Alberta organizations for the development of shorter-season on agriculture research funding. The investment will fund fi ve corn hybrids and the expansion of corn cultivation in Alberta. research projects in the area of breeding/genetics, four in Alberta Innovates Bio Solutions and the Alberta Crop Industry agronomic management and one that covers both agronomy Development Fund Ltd. will each invest $500,000 throughout and genetics. To leverage research dollars, AWC partnered with a fi ve-year period. “We are pleased to receive this grant, as it several AFC members on these projects, including the Western signifi es the value of early maturity corn hybrids for Western Grains Research Foundation, Alberta Innovates BioSolutions, Canada,” says Greg Stokke, DuPont Pioneer Western Canada Alberta Crop Industry Development Fund, Alberta Pulse business director. “Corn and soybeans are valuable rotational Growers Commission, Alberta Barley, Alberta Canola Producers crops that could become widely established in Western Canada Commission, Potato Growers of Alberta and the Alfalfa Seed during the next decade, further increasing grower productivity Commission. The total investment for all 10 projects is $9 and profi tability.” million and includes funding targeted at national, provincial and university institutions.

JULY 2014 51 Research Funds Hinge on Collaboration

he seed industry faces dolling out research money. They are looking for industry a number of issues. involvement and opportunities to collaborate. The mantra TWe can point to Bill I keep hearing is the need to support an interdisciplinary C-18, developing a value and integrated approach to research. capture model in cereals, low-level presence, myco- In the seed sector, we often look to plant breeding to toxins and unrestricted solve our production woes. And although new varieties trade. These are all impor- and traits bring improved attributes to the market, we’ve tant issues that deserve seen a resurgence in the need for sound agronomic research attention. However, the issue to complement variety development. That is farmers want that I'm going to focus on access to new varieties, but they also want to know how is the need to support basic to optimize the performance of this variety on their farm. research in the seed sector and a system that brings meaningful results to those who grow and manage crops in The industry is well positioned to do this and it’s starting Canada. to become more common. It’s not just about plant breeding — it’s much broader and more integrated than that. Farmers The Canadian government has told the industry that it will will still ask about seeding rates or plant populations, which support the seed industry in many ways, but taxpayers will are very practical questions that still need to be answered. no longer support all levels and types of research. That is, the free lunch is over. Throughout the years, the seed sector On the other end of the spectrum, we are entering into an has felt somewhat entitled to get a disproportionate amount era of big data. It will be and has been extremely useful, of funding from various levels of government. This decision but we are just now really getting into the crux of all means we have to step up our game and, in fact, we are. this data. How will this data be used? What advances can it bring to variety and hybrid selection, variety and The industry is not only contributing to research in a more hybrid development and crop production? How it will be meaningful way, but it is also providing significant support managed, stored and shared? These are all questions that to public institutions. One example of that is the University we don’t quite have the answers to. of Saskatchewan’s Crop Development Centre, which brings in substantial outside funding and supports a myriad of This transition in research funding has some benefits. projects that benefit the seed sector. In the process of Going forward, the industry will need to lead in some working on various research projects, the faculty are also areas and collaborate in others. Collaboration can and will training undergraduate students and graduate students who involve the public sector, but will be more reliant on the will someday work in our industry and help advance it into private sector. Farmers will also be more involved — both the future. All in all, it's a good investment. in funding and providing direction as to how research money will be spent. Collaboration is never a bad thing and Farmers continue to finance research by supporting the getting the value chain together ensures that the projects Western Grains Research Foundation and the various being funded are relevant and meaningful. It also means commissions and grower groups that provide research that the seed sector in its entirety needs to be engaged and dollars across Canada. In a recent Pulse Beat article from willing to learn where to plug in and how to invest. the Manitoba Pulse Growers Association, I was impressed that this relatively small organization is funding 56 projects With that, the industry also needs to ensure that federal in 2014 for a total expenditure of $1.5 million. So when institutions and universities conduct basic research that will governments back away, the private sector has been willing someday lead to significant innovations in the field. These to invest. are often high-risk projects that the private sector will not touch and should be in the public domain.. Governments While governments seem to be backing away from need to know they still have that responsibility. research, they are by no means backing out of it. As resources are limited and fewer dollars have to stretch Peter Entz, Canadian Seed Trade Association president farther, governments are taking a different approach at

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