(Alice McFarlane/farmnewsNOW Staff)

By Alice McFarlane

Seed Royalties

Farmers comment on farm saved seed

Sep 6, 2019 | 1:44 PM

Producers have until Oct.15 to share their views on proposed changes to seed royalty structures for cereal crops.

The online survey, launched in July by three prairie farm groups, is collecting producer feedback on proposed changes to the way royalties are collected on saved seed.

Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan President Todd Lewis said concerns were raised about the level of producer input in the government’s consultation process.

“It’s pretty clear in the responses we have received so far that Canadian producers have a lot to say and feel very strongly about the seed royalty issue and they deserve to be heard,” Lewis said. “We encourage as many producers as possible to take the survey before Oct.15. These changes will affect producers first and foremost and their views need to be considered in this decision.”

Alberta Federation of Agriculture President Lynn Jacobson said all options have a direct impact on farmers.

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“When it comes to the issue of seed royalty structures there is a single payer in every possible model and that is the producer. Harvest is a busy time of year on the farm but taking a few minutes to participate in this survey is one way producers can ensure their voices are heard.”

Bill Campbell is the president of Keystone Agricultural Producers. He said producers need to be involved in the consultation process to ensure that these structures work in their best interest.

“We have received clear feedback from producers across our three provinces on proposed changes to seed royalty structures, but we want to ensure that with harvest underway we provide the ability for producers to continue to respond during this busy time of year.” Campbell said.

Farmers can participate by going to www.seedroyaltysurvey.com

After the survey closes, the results will be compiled and presented to the agriculture minister after the federal election.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @AliceMcF