EDMONTON — The end of the Wheat Board monopoly is Aug. 1, so the Government of Alberta has created two new commissions to represent grain farmers in Alberta — The Alberta Wheat Commission and the Alberta Oat Growers Commission.
“Producers recognize the need to have organizations that will serve as a strong voice on their behalf and help ensure the grain industry remains competitive, profitable and on the leading edge of innovation,” said Agriculture Minister Verlyn Olson.
The two new commissions will replace the Alberta Winter Wheat Producers Commission and the Alberta Soft Wheat Producers Commission. The organizations will be funded by service charges — $0.70/tonne on wheat sold in Alberta, raising an estimated $3.5 million per year, which will be used for wheat research and market development.
The Agricultural Products Marketing Council will appoint an interim Board of Directors until producer-elected Boards are in place, with the election process expected to be completed by next spring.
There are 14 agricultural commissions in Alberta, representing commodities such as barley, canola, beef and pork.
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