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Western wheat farmers say new marketing system will benefit their business

Nov. 12, 2012, Red Deer, AB - According to a recent poll conducted by Ipsos Reid on behalf of BASF Canada Inc. (BASF), 85% of growers in Western Canada believe the new environment for marketing wheat is beneficial to their business.

The online poll of 401 growers in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba was conducted in October 2012. Growers were asked about their opinions on the opportunities and challenges they face within the new marketing atmosphere.

"We are working with, and listening to, growers in Western Canada," says BASF Brand Manager for Clearfield® Crops, Harley House. "Of all the crops across the country with the most change - it's wheat. We wanted to hear from growers about how they feel in the new marketing environment."

Last summer, after close to three quarters of a century, the Canadian Wheat Board lost its single-desk marketing over prairie wheat. New legislation has given Western Canadian farmers the opportunity to sell their crops in an open market.

According to the poll, 89% of growers believe profitability, because of the new market accessibility, is their biggest business opportunity, while three quarters (74%) of those polled said smaller yields due to disease pressure is a significant challenge.

"Wheat is profitable again," says House. "But growers are still facing challenges. That's why BASF is responding to growers' needs. We have a complete wheat portfolio, including superior weed control, industry-leading fungicides, seed treatments, and premium genetics."

Times have changed in Western Canada; however, BASF remains committed to bringing innovative solutions to market to meet the increased demand for Western Canadian crops.

Full tabular results of this poll are available at www.ipsos.ca.

November 12, 2012  By CNW