Canada Markets

DTN's weekly informal 360 Poll allows readers the chance to share their thoughts on various matters affecting the agriculture industry.

Here are the results of some of the polls:

WHO CAN BUY SASK FARMLAND?

The latest poll asked readers who should and should not be allowed to purchase Saskatchewan farmland. This is a timely topic, given that the Government of Saskatchewan has announced a moratorium on the sale of land to various types of investment trusts, pension plans and administrators of pension plans. During this time, a consultation process will take place between May 20 and August 10 which focuses on this issue.

When asked how the Saskatchewan government should deal with these potential buyers, all respondents had an opinion, as indicated by the zero percent Undecided category. The largest response of 44% of respondents favored restricting pension plans, investment trusts and foreign buyers from all purchases in order to benefit younger buyers.

The majority of respondents were in favor of allowing farmland sales to outside entities. A total of 39% viewed these sales as a way to increase the pool of potential buyers while helping protect the value of the land asset, while an additional 17% suggest that sales to entities outside agriculture should be allowed, but with limits.

By province, Manitoba producers were the most likely to totally restrict outside investment in farmland, while Alberta respondents were the least likely. Also of interest, Ontario respondents were more in favor of Choice 2, or allowing outside investors without restrictions, while Saskatchewan respondents were the least likely.

You can learn more about the process at www.saskatchewan.ca/farmland

EASTERN CANADA CORN AND SOY ACREAGE

Another DTN 360 poll released recently focused on Canada's corn and soybean acres for 2015. The question was asked as follows:

Statistics Canada's acreage estimates for 2015 suggested that eastern Canada will plant more corn and less soybeans than in 2014, counter to the expected move to be made by U.S. farmers. What is the primary driver of this decision?

Responses varied across the four choices as follows:

-- 25% suggested the early start to planting allowed more corn acres to go in the ground;

-- 25% suggested economics were the primary driver behind their decision;

-- 13% responded that declining farm stocks of corn relative to soybeans makes corn a better choice;

-- 37% responded that they do not agree with Statistics Canada's acreage estimates.

Note that these responses were made based on Statistics Canada's March Intentions report, with Canada's corn acres estimated at 3.2681 million acres, an increase of 6.2% from 2014, while soybean acres are estimated at 5.3754 million acres, a decline of 3.4%. Statistics Canada will release its Principal field crop areas report June 30.

NEW TERMINAL NEEDED ON WEST COAST?

One last poll focused on the possibility of a new terminal on Canada's West Coast. The question was posed as follows:

Media reports are suggesting that CWB, under ownership of the Bunge partnership with a Saudi Arabia company, is considering a new terminal in the Port Metro Vancouver and would be the first in decades. What do you think?

Responses were as follows:

-- 35% responded that this is a badly needed facility and will greatly enhance competition on the Prairies;

-- 55% answered that this is a good move, although other supply chain issues (such as railcar movement) need to be addressed;

-- 5% responded that it would be nice to see more Canadian ownership on the West Coast and another 5% had no opinion.

Thanks to all who respond to DTN polls. This week's poll asks if your 2015/16 marketing plan includes new crop sales. We look forward to your feedback; the poll can be found at the lower right corner of your DTN Home Page.

Cliff Jamieson can be reached at cliff.jamieson@dtn.com

Follow Cliff Jamieson on Twitter @CliffJamieson

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