By Alice McFarlane

Agriculture Roundup for Tuesday August 25, 2020

Aug 25, 2020 | 10:02 AM

MELFORT, Sask. – Canadian wheat prices are under pressure with news of a bumper crop.

The latest SaskWheat market outlook said wheat prices in Russia increased marginally even with a crop expected to be the second largest on record.

Canadian wheat export shipments in the new crop year were off to a good start at 424,000 tonnes.

The United States winter wheat harvest is nearing completion with the hard-red winter harvest at 86 per cent with only crops in Montana and the Pacific Northwest left to harvest.

The report is compiled by Mercantile Consulting Ventures.

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With the uncertainties surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic the Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) decided to host the first ever digital convention in 2021.

SARM President Ray Orb said moving to an online event was to ensure the health and safety of the roughly 2,300 delegates.

“We know there are internet and technology challenges in rural areas, and we will work with the RM’s in advance to ensure a positive digital experience,” Orb said in a media release.

COVID-19 has highlighted the problems with rural broadband.

Orb said municipalities know internet is essential in boosting the economic and social well-being of rural communities. He said larger investments are required to allow rural residents to fully participate in the digital world.

Next year’s SARM convention will be March 8 to 12.

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Alberta Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) announced last week farmers with non-viable acres can apply for a refund of their 2020 hail premiums.

Farmers in many areas of Alberta are facing hardship and stress due to excessive moisture.

AFSC introduced a refund initiative for producers who are insured under the Hail Endorsement or Straight Hail Insurance. This one-time initiative offers relief to farmers who have drowned-out crops that are no longer viable and would be ineligible for a hail claim.

AFSC will be accepting applications until Sept. 11 for premium refunds to impact clients for the full amount of their 2020 hail premiums on crops deemed non-viable.

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alice.mcfarlane@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @AliceMcF