Winnipeg, Manitoba
October 18, 2007
Innovative new online tool
simplifies viewing of CWB Variety Survey results
A milling wheat variety named
Lillian, introduced for the first time in 2006, has already
become the most commonly planted type of Canada Western Red
Spring (CWRS) wheat in Western Canada.
The Canadian Wheat Board’s
2007 Variety Survey, released today, shows Lillian has
overtaken Superb as the most popular wheat on the Prairies,
comprising 15 per cent of all CWRS plantings. In 2006, Superb
had displaced AC Barrie, which was the top variety for over a
decade. Nearly half the varieties of CWRS grown in 1998 are no
longer produced today.
This year’s survey also shows sharp regional divisions between
preferred varieties. For example, Lillian is the top variety in
Saskatchewan, where its solid stem resists a persistent sawfly
problem. In Alberta, the Harvest variety is tops for its
sprouting resistance and in Manitoba, where fusarium concern is
high, AC Barrie remains the overwhelming favourite.
“Newer varieties bred for specific growing conditions are being
adopted quickly by farmers in response to very specific needs,”
said CWB agronomist Mike Grenier. “The days of farmers relying
on a single variety for many years are over. That makes
knowledge of varietal trends more important than ever.”
Other survey highlights are listed in the attached backgrounder.
An innovative new
online tool has been introduced to help farmers easily view
the Variety Survey results. Using the computer mouse to “hover”
over an area on a map of Western Canada, boxes instantly pop up
listing the top varieties of various grain classes in each crop
district. Increased regional differences make this a
particularly useful detail, Grenier said.
Another new tool allows quick viewing of charts and graphs
showing province-by-province trends in seeded varieties. Graphs
can be customized to allow meaningful comparisons by class, by
province or by year. A written overview has also been posted to
help readers quickly identify noteworthy developments in
varietal trends.
An audio podcast featuring Grenier discussing the Variety Survey
results will be posted this week for exclusive access by farmers
who have signed up for CWB
e-Services.
Controlled by western Canadian farmers, the CWB is the largest
wheat and barley marketer in the world. One of Canada's biggest
exporters, the Winnipeg-based organization sells grain to over
70 countries and returns all sales revenue, less marketing costs
to farmers. |
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