How close to finished, yields, grades and basis levels.

[charliep]

How close is everyone to getting finished? How did the crop turn out (yields and grades)? How ugly are basis levels (particularly on canola)?

[kfournier]

In the Lloydminster area most of the crop is harvested with only a few wheat and canola fields left. Our yields were above average in wheat and much above average in barley, canola and peas. There is a lot of ergot in the wheat with just about everyone having at least a field or two affected. It will be a challenging year for the elevator agents. Our basis levels in canola are what I would call really ugly for this area. ADM is quoting $17 under November for spot delivery which is about $10 wider than normal. If we are patient in this area we can usually get a $4 under to an even basis at some point in the year. One of the reasons for the wide basis could be the large crops were harvesting leading to a lack of storage space. There are many yards with grain piled on the ground. One other reason could also be the lack of elevator space for board grains. I am sure many farmers have bills to pay and must sell something. Are there any markets out there for green peas?

[buss]

Have you checked out the broker and buyer lists for special crops maintained on the SAF and AAFRD websites. They may provide you with extra contacts in your search for green pea markets. The SAF site is at http://www.agr.gov.sk.ca/ under crops and special crops. The AAFRD site is at http://www.agric.gov.ab.ca/ under crops and special crops. Walker seeds had a field pea commentary in the latest issue of The Saskatchewan Pulse Grower which was bearish on green peas. Check it out at the Sask Pulse Grower Website at http://www.vsource.com/saskpulse/. I don't think the newsletter is posted yet but it should be soon.