In a revamp it says will simplify the process for Prairie farmers, BASF Canada has moved to a three-year "Clearfield commitment" producers will need to sign to grow Clearfield lentils starting this year.
The new commitment, announced Thursday, essentially requires a grower wanting to seed Clearfield lentils to complete and sign a Clearfield Commitment for lentils, which will remain in effect to the end of the 2014 growing season.
Once they have signed their commitment, growers need to submit only their Clearfield lentil acreage on an annual basis. Growers can complete the form for their commitment at their local herbicide retailer, through their Clearfield lentil seed dealer or online through the company's Secure Grower website.
Growers must also agree to "Clearfield-confirm" test all seed used in the production system for lentils, thereby ensuring the seed meets the required herbicide tolerances. The testing is done free of charge.
"BASF Canada is committed to ensuring the Clearfield production system continues to be the best way to grow lentils," Danielle Reid, the company's associate market manager, said in a release. "Part of that commitment includes responding to growers who've asked us to simplify the process involved with growing them."
By signing the agreement, growers will have greater access to the AgSolutions rebate program, as well as product support from BASF Canada, the company said.
Related story:
BASF plans full-scale release of Clearfield lentils, Dec. 14, 2009