Status of Policy Issue: Code of Practice

Canadian grain farmers share a deep commitment to the environment. This is evidenced by the widespread adoptions of science-based agronomy and the incorporation of innovation and technology that have greatly reduced farming’s environmental footprint over the last 30 years.

Responsible Grain was intended to focus on best management practices (BMPs), communicate the progress that modern agriculture has made towards contributing to the health of the environment, as well as identify areas where improvements could still be made. However, based on our own assessment, through feedback from Saskatchewan levy payers, and consultations with our partner groups and canola farmers across Canada, the Canadian Roundtable for Sustainable Crops (CRSC) did not successfully deliver on their intended goal.

Actions taken:

• Because of its potential to influence on-farm activities, SaskCanola recognized a responsibility in assuming a leadership role to keep growers informed of the Code’s progress. We promoted the consultations and involved farmers directly to gather their feedback, allowing the majority of farmers to make their views known. CCGA led a session with farmers on our boards and from the general public to review each module in early 2021.

• SaskCanola worked with the other canola organizations to compile farmer input and provide formal recommendations to the Code Committee.

Looking forward:

As a result of the feedback they received, the CRSC is determining next steps for a Code that reflects farmers’ concerns. SaskCanola is participating in this re-evaluation and will keep farmers interests front and center in these ongoing discussions.

March 21, 2022: Click here to view SaskCanola’s feedback submitted to CRSC, re: Code of Practice.