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Report Assesses the Potential Impact of Roundup Ready Alfalfa on Canada’s Forage Industry

June 13, 2012, Brandon, MB. The Canadian Forage & Grassland Association (CFGA), through a project partnership with the Saskatchewan Forage Council, is pleased to announce the release of a national, industry-wide market impact study providing an unbiased, fact-based assessment of the potential impact of Roundup Ready alfalfa (RRA) on Canada's forage industry. This collaborative project, with input and direction from stakeholders across the industry, will assist the forage industry nation-wide in its efforts to respond to the new and emerging issue of genetically modified crops.
 
The report provides an overview of Canada's forage industry, including export statistics, and a synopsis of the technology and current regulatory status of RRA in Canada. The analysis of the topic is far-reaching as it includes a discussion of the basics of alfalfa reproduction and potential for gene flow and seed cross contamination, an overview of strategies implemented by other commodity groups in their efforts to adapt to the introduction of GE technology, and the current status of RRA in the United States. Key to this study was widespread input from stakeholders across Canada's forage industry, from those concerned about potential impacts on export markets to producers anticipating a new and effective weed control system. Potential economic impacts are quantified.
 
Canadian Forage & Grassland Association Chair and Irricana, Alberta-area cow/calf and forage producer, Doug Wray, noted "from my perspective, the input gathered and the dialogue created within our industry has been the greatest success of this project. The opportunity to clearly examine the facts and come together for an open and broad-based discussion was essential. By addressing the issue we are positioned to establish the best path forward for all stakeholders," added Wray.
 
The complete report, 'Assessing the Potential Impact of Roundup Ready Alfalfa on Canada's Forage Industry', is available for download on the CFGA website.

June 19, 2012  By Canadian Forage & Grassland Association


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