Online simulation showing canola growers
how to add more dollars to their bottom line

February 14, 2005 - Winnipeg, Manitoba- To date, more than 120 canola growers have discovered how to increase their bottom line by participating in the Canola Commodity Challenge, an online canola marketing simulation hosted by the Manitoba Canola Growers Association (MCGA).

Launched in January, the Canola Commodity Challenge provides growers with a preset inventory of canola that can be marketed using a number of different alternatives. "Historically, canola growers have sold the bulk of their production in the bottom third of the price range", says Bruce Dalgarno, Marketing Chairman of the MCGA. "By using the Challenge’s online tools like fixed basis and deferred delivery contracts, growers can see for themselves how to improve their return", he continues.

After the 1st week of February, over 30% of the trades made by participating growers have been Grain Pricing Orders- a contracting option that lets growers sell a specific amount of canola if the price reaches a certain value during a set period of time.

In addition to seeing how marketing alternatives can increase their bottom line, MCGA members have the chance to win an all expense paid trip to the Canola Council of Canada July 2005 convention in Halifax. Details on the Contest and how to participate in the Challenge can be found at www.mcgacanola.org and clicking on the Canola Commodity Challenge logo under Marketing.

The MCGA is a grower operated, non-profit organization with the goal to develop and promote the development and marketing of Manitoba grown canola. The Canola Commodity Challenge is a project of the MCGA along with sponsors, Cargill AgHorizons, Manitoba Co-operator, Canola Council of Canada and Manitoba Rural Adaptation Council.

For more information please contact,

Bill Ross, Executive Manager
Manitoba Canola Growers Association
204-982-2120
Cell: (204) 471-9588
Email: rossb@mcgacanola.org

Bruce Dalgarno,
Marketing Chairman
204-849-2193