FLAX DAY 2000

Flax Growers Western Canada and the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission
“Focus on Flax”
January 10, 2000
Saskatoon Inn
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Overview
Over one hundred and fifty producers and industry representatives gathered for Flax Day 2000 in Saskatoon.

During the SFDC annual general meeting, the group reviewed and approved audited financial statements for the fiscal year ended July 31, 1999; approved director reports related to the key areas of operation:  Research, Communications and Market Facilitation; and approved the Operational Budget 99/00.  Returning Officer Mr. Ron Thorstad provided the election summary with directors Hale and Boehm being re-elected each for a three year term.  Resolutions regarding Director Remuneration; Flax Day 2000 and Wildlife Insurance were presented and accepted by meeting delegates.  The annual report is available at the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission office.

Extension programs for the day included updates on fibre; crop residue pilot project (Regina); flax varieties and agronomic practices at Indian head.  Market outlook and the potential for flax in nutraceutical markets were discussed.

Focus on Flax 2000 provided opportunities for producers to liaise with other producers, leading researchers, flax marketers and extension specialists.

Resolutions from AGM

Resolution Regarding Director Remuneration
Whereas the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission is established as a development commission pursuant to section 5 of the Agri-Food Act:

Whereas the commission consists of a board of directors consisting of six registered producers elected in accordance with sections 18 to 20 of the Act.

Whereas the remuneration to be paid to the members of the commission is to be fixed by the registered producers at the annual meeting, and

Whereas remuneration for previous fiscal years was $235.000 (chair) and $155.00 directors.

Be it resolved that the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission rates of remuneration for its directors is established at current rates of $235.00 chair and $155.00 directors.

Resolution Regarding Flax Day 2000
Whereas the Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission mandate is to enhance the flax industry and whereas Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission and Flax Growers Western Canada have a cooperative relationship and whereas Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission appreciates the efforts of Flax Growers Western Canada in organization this day.

Be it resolved that Saskatchewan Flax Development Commission thanks Flax Growers Western Canada staff – Executive Director Adele Buettner and her team of Patti Martin, Joan Lasiuk and Sheila Leys for the day’s coordination.

Resolution Regarding Wildlife/Insurance
Whereas Wild life damage (both water fowl and big game) cause serious economic hardship for many producers and
Whereas:  Canada – Sask. Crop Insurance is the insuring agent and
Whereas the Federal and Provincial Government’s portion comes out of their Ag. Budget and is then factored in as part of their ag. Funding when negotiating rural programs.
Whereas producers are maintaining the wildlife population for the general good and benefit of all concerned.
Therefore be it resolved that: the federal and provincial portion of crop insurance that is used for crop depredation come from the Department of Natural Resources and not be considered as part of their ag funding.