CWB Raises Initial Payments

WINNIPEG - Feb 15/08 - SNS -- The Candian Wheat Board (CWB) boosted initial payments for wheat, durum and designated barley will increase effective February 21, 2008.

The increase for wheat will range from $41.60 to $51.60 per metric ton (MT), depending on grade, class and protein level. For milling durum, the increase will range from $80.50 to $96.50 MT. For designated barley, the increase will range from $10 to $13.

                                             Initial   Adjustment   Total    January
                                             payment    payment    to date  2007-08 PRO
No. 1 Canada Western Red Spring Wheat 12.5   $230.50    $41.60     $272.10    $356
No. 1 Canada Western Amber Durum 12.5        $314.50    $85.00     $399.50    $495
SS CW 2 Row Designated Barley                $260.00    $10.00     $270.00    $290
SS CW 6 Row Designated Barley                $231.00    $13.00     $244.00    $264

Farmers who delivered wheat, durum and designated barley to the CWB between August 1, 2007 and February 20, 2008 will receive an adjustment payment. The payments will be mailed by March 7 or received by direct deposit on March 4. Farmers who wish to defer payments have until February 27 to notify the CWB by calling 1-800-275-4292.