CWB Boosts Initial Payments

WINNIPEG - Dec 17/06 - SNS -- The Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) boosted initial payments for wheat, durum, feed and designated barley deliveries effective December 21, 2006.

The increase in initial payments for wheat will range from zero to $29 per metric ton (MT), depending upon the grade and class. In the case of durum, the increase will range from $1 to $27 MT.

For feed barley in Pool A, the increase will be $60.50 MT, while the increase for designated barley will be $27 for two-row and $20 for six-row varieties.

The adjustment payments, in dollars MT, for representative grades in each pool account are listed below. The total initial payment to date is basis in-store Vancouver or St. Lawrence and must be adjusted for freight/elevation charges to arrive at farm gate prices.

               Canadian Wheat Board Payments for Major Grades
                    (Canadian dollars per metric ton)

                                            Initial  Adjustment  Paid to date
No. 1 Canada Western Red Spring Wheat 12.5   $149.00     $15.00      $164.00
No. 1 Canada Western Amber Durum 12.5        $140.00     $17.00      $157.00
No. 1 CW Barley (Pool A)                      $79.50     $60.50      $145.00
SS CW 2 Row Designated Barley                $147.00     $27.00      $174.00
SS CW 6 Row Designated Barley                $141.00     $20.00      $161.00

Farmers who delivered wheat, durum, barley and designated barley to the CWB between Aug. 1, 2006 and Dec. 20, 2006 will receive an adjustment payment. The payments will be mailed by Jan. 12, 2007 or received by direct deposit on Jan. 9, 2007. Farmers who wish to defer payments have until Jan. 3, 2007 to notify the CWB by calling 1-800-275-4292.