June Seeding Intentions Surprising

VANCOUVER - Jun 23/11 - SNS -- Someone forgot to tell farmers what they were supposed to be doing this year. That one of the few conclusion that can be reached about Statistics Canada's seeded area estimates for 2011, which surprised most market participants.

For the second year in a row, wet weather has kept numerous farmers out of their fields, with the result the seeded area estimates are more of an undate on this year's seeding intentions than a indication of what has been planted.

Commenting on the numbers, Statistics Canada was clear in saying the number represent what "farmers had either planted, or intended to plant . . . Seeding has not been completed in all regions, as reported by farmers.

"A major factor has been the continued inclement weather in the eastern Prairie region and areas of Ontario and Quebec. This has caused delays in seeding and created uncertainty for farmers about which crops to seed," Statistics Canada stressed, "As a result, estimates of seeded areas may change in the July survey, the results of which will be released on August 24."

Statistics Canada added, "The June Farm Survey is about crop seeded areas in Canada. In 2011, the survey was conducted to approximately 25,000 farmers, from May 25 to June 3. Farmers were asked to report their seeded areas of grain, oilseeds and special crops.

"June seeded acres are subject to revisions from subsequent surveys during the year. Final acreage numbers for 2011 will be released on December 6 and are subject to revision for two years."