Canola farmers in northwestern Minnesota gathered recently to hear experts from across the region discuss all aspects of canola production at the Council’s 2022 Canola Symposium held December 7 at the Community Center in Roseau. Farmers, industry representatives, and university personnel enjoyed educational sessions covering current and future research, new industry innovations (Canola Spotlight), canola market outlooks, political implications of a new administration, and a wide range of canola-related topics to help farmers prepare for a successful 2023.

“This year’s Symposium featured an impressive lineup of canola experts who discussed everything from agronomics to economics,” said Beth Nelson, Minnesota Canola Council President. “Our goal is to give Minnesota’s canola farmers the tools they need to make the coming year a profitable one.” Click here for complete article.

Minnesota Canola Board Seats Up for Election

The Council is seeking canola farmers interested in running for two director seats up for election this year:

• At Large - currently held by Kevin Severson, Roseau
• District 3 (Beltrami/Koochiching/LOW Counties) currently held by Cody Hasbargen, Baudette

The At-Large position can be filled by any Minnesota canola farmer regardless of county. The District 3 position can only be filled by a canola farmer who resides in Beltrami, Koochiching, or Lake of the Woods Counties. These are 3-year terms. If you are interested in running for the board, contact Beth Nelson.

Crop Insurance Deadline Approaching for Minnesota Farmers

Canola farmers in Minnesota should make note of USDA’s Risk Management Agency (RMA) final date to apply for crop insurance for spring crops such as canola is March 15 for the 2023 crop year. Current policyholders who wish to make changes to their existing coverage also have until the March 15 sales closing date to do so.

Federal crop insurance is critical to the farm safety net. It helps producers and owners manage revenue risks and helps to strengthen the rural economy. Farmers may select from a number of coverage options.

Producers are encouraged to visit their crop insurance agent soon to learn specific details for the 2023 crop year. Agents can help farmers determine what policy works best for their operation and review existing coverage to ensure the policy meets their needs.

Crop insurance is sold and delivered solely through private crop insurance agents. A list of crop insurance agents is available at all USDA Service Centers and online at the RMA Agent Locator. Farmers can use the RMA Cost Estimator to get a premium amount estimate of their insurance needs online.

For more information about crop insurance and the modern farm safety net, visit www.rma.usda.gov.

Minnesota Canola Council Annual Report, 2022 CPC Report Available Online

The 2021-'22 Minnesota Canola Council Annual Report, as well as the 2022 Canola Production Centre (CPC) Report are available on the Minnesota Canola Council website.

Click either link to learn more about the activities of the Council over the past year, as well as to peruse the data and results related to the research trials undertaken on the 2022 CPC as you prepare for a successful 2023 crop year. Trials included: 1) variety and systems comparison; 2) seed shattering; 3) micronuntrient fertility management; 4) Roundup resistant weed control with an integrated soil and post emergence weed control systems; and 5) evaluation of novel seed treatments for enhanced flea beetle control.

For more information about the Council and its activities visit mncanola.org.