On November 25 and 26, farmers attended workshops in Carman and Souris to explore the ins and outs of grain grading. Farmer Grain Grading Bootcamp was a focused, three-hour look at how a variety of grains are graded, including canola, in Canada and why accuracy matters when you market your crop.
Led by the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC), the session explains how official grading standards are set and applied, and where to find the standards and procedures on the CGC website so you can verify details before you sell. “There are great resources and free tools like the Harvest Sample Program to give you an independent snapshot of crop quality, alongside low-cost grading services you can use when you need deeper analysis,” Chuck Fossay, MCGA Director, explains.
Just as important, the bootcamp covers your rights at delivery. If you disagree with a buyer’s assessment, you can request an official Final Grade Determination from the CGC for that load on any grading factors including: moisture, protein and dockage. Chuck further explains, “So the value you’ve grown is represented fairly.” Together, these services turn grade information into pricing power, helping you negotiate with confidence, and maximize sales.
As joint hosts of the event, Manitoba Canola Growers, Manitoba Crop Alliance, and Manitoba Pulse & Soybean Growers were pleased to welcome farmers for a practical, conversation-driven session. Kendall Baker, Research and Extension Coordinator, represented Manitoba Canola Growers at the event. “We shaped the event around what farmers told us they needed and wanted to see: clear, usable information and a space for farmers to ask questions and share their experiences,” Kendall explains. Bringing farmers together strengthens relationships and keeps the focus on what helps farms succeed.
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