NEWS RELEASE

Manitoba Canola Growers Poised to Embrace a Growing Future

Winnipeg, MB, September 24, 2007- The grower-elected board of the Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA) has committed to one mission on behalf of its members:  maximizing net income from growing canola.  With a bright future of opportunities before them, the MCGA is approaching its members for their support.

“Since 1996, canola production has delivered almost $1.3 billion in gross revenue per year and provided crucial support to farm families, rural communities and the Manitoba economy in general,” says Brian Chorney, President of the MCGA.  “While the future opportunities that lie before us as growers are very promising, they will only be fully realized by Manitoba growers if we are active participants at the decision-making table.  And being actively engaged takes resources-both people and dollars,” he continues.  Chorney indicates the MCGA is seeking member support for an increase in its check-off from the current $0.50 per tonne (1.1 cents per bushel) to $1.00 per tonne (2.2 cents per bushel) at the MCGA annual general meeting in January 2008.  If a motion to increase the check-off is supported, the MCGA will be approaching the Agricultural Producers’ Organization Certification Agency requesting the change to the check-off.

Chorney advises information on how MCGA has invested grower check-off dollars has been provided directly to members.  He says regional meetings will be held after harvest, providing members with the direct opportunity to hear from MCGA directors how check-off dollars have been invested to date, and a brief overview of the opportunities that lie ahead for Manitoba growers.

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MCGA check off facts:

• There are 10,000 current members of the MCGA
• The current check-off of $0.50 per tonne  (1.1 cents per bushel) has been in place since 1996
• All growers who contribute check-off monies have the right to participate in elections to the Board and stand for office
• The check-off is refundable upon request
  

For more information, please contact:

Brian Chorney
President
204-482-4997
Bruce Dalgarno
Marketing Co-chair
204-849-2193
Ernie Sirski
Treasurer
204-638-5511