September 28, 2009 (Saskatoon, SK) - Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission (SaskFlax) is urging all growers to send in samples of their 2009 flax crop to the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC).

"Samples of this year’s flax crop will help to establish a baseline of data on this year’s flax crop," said Allen Kuhlmann, SaskFlax Chair. "It will help confirm the quality of our product to our international flax buyers."

Each year, the CGC collects grain samples as part of its Harvest Sample program, in which tests are performed to gather data about the year’s crop quality. Results of the survey are shared with marketers, buyers and processors around the world.

"Since 1932, the CGC has provided flaxseed producers with an unofficial grain grade and analytical test results on oil and protein content as well as iodine value for each sample, at no charge," said Peter Burnett, director of the CGC’s Grain Research Laboratory. "Once samples are tested and graded, composite samples will go to the CGC’s Grain Research Laboratory for further testing to accurately reflect the quality of this year’s flaxseed crop."

Growers are encouraged to act quickly and call or email the SaskFlax office to receive postage-paid sample envelopes for sending in samples of this year’s flax crop to the Canadian Grain Commission.

"Now, more than ever, we need to work together to do what we can to keep our industry strong," Kuhlmann said.

For more information, contact:

Linda Braun, Executive Director
Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission
Saskatoon, SK
Tel. 306-664-1901
Email: saskflax@saskflax.com

or

Rémi Gosselin
Manager, Corporate Information Services
Canadian Grain Commission
Winnipeg, Manitoba
Tel. (204) 983-2749
Email: remi.gosselin@grainscanada.gc.ca