Successful inaugural year for Western Canadian deduction

CALGARY, July 11, 2013 /CNW/ - The Alberta Barley Commission (ABC) extends its thanks to farmers and grain buyers for supporting the Western Canadian deduction for wheat and barley in its first year.

Administered by the Commission, as per the Regulations Respecting Research, Market Development and Technical Assistance (Wheat and Barley), the deduction funds three recipient groups: the Western Grains Research Foundation (WGRF), the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC) and the Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi).

Collected at a rate of $0.48 per tonne of wheat and $0.56 per tonne for barley ($0.04 per tonne of barley sold in Alberta), the deduction is used to fund new varieties as well as new marketing opportunities—giving wheat and barley farmers a competitive edge in the global market place.

"As administrators of this deduction, we have diligently managed it to ensure the recipient groups receive stable funding to continue their important work," said Commission General Manager Lisa Skierka.

The check-off, while mandatory, is refundable. Farmers are reminded that all refund applications must be submitted to the Commission by July 31, 2013. Refunds are only processed once per year, and recent amendments to the regulations allow for 90 days to process and return the refund. Unfortunately, no partial refunds can be granted for the deduction.

"We encourage farmers to contact our accounting staff with any questions they might have," said Skierka.

For more information on the wheat and barley deduction, visit www.wheatbarleycheckoff.com or call 1-800-265-9111.

The Alberta Barley Commission is a not-for-profit organization directed, funded and controlled by the province's barley farmers. The Commission co-ordinates and sponsors research, market development, technology transfer and policy development on behalf of its producers.

SOURCE: Alberta Barley Commission

Trevor Bacque 
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