2015 marks the fifth anniversary of wheat growers seeding midge tolerant wheat varieties. Since the launch, we have witnessed a strong uptake of the technology and its popularity continues to grow.
Today, 18% of total western wheat acres are midge
tolerant -- that's up from 16% in 2013. In Saskatchewan,
midge tolerant wheat accounts for more than 36% of the province's total wheat acres.
Farmers who grow midge tolerant wheat report significant yield and grade benefits --approximately $36 per acre (based on wheat priced at $6 bu/ac). We have also achieved 96% grower compliance with the stewardship practices.
At the same time that we celebrate these terrific results, we need to keep vigilant to ensure the technology is protected for future growing seasons. The Midge Tolerant Wheat Stewardship Team has many communications tactics underway to help keep stewardship messaging top of mind and reinforce the importance of protecting midge tolerant wheat.
Watch for "There is No Plan B" ads in Western Producer, Crop Production Show Guide, CAAR Communicator and provincial seed guides as well as online at RealAgriculture.com and AgCanada.com. Several other initiatives will roll out over the coming months to support you in your stewardship communication efforts.