Railway companies and the grain industry need to be prepared to handle a large crop, said Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan President Norm Hall recently.

“We may be only 30 to 60 days from harvesting a significantly larger than normal crop” he added. “To date Saskatchewan crop conditions have been rated as good to excellent in most areas according to Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture weekly crop report. Most crops in the other prairie provinces are also experiencing similar conditions. The potential for a large than average crop in Saskatchewan and across the prairies grows each week. Now would be the ideal time for grain companies and shippers to prepare for that potential.”

He continued that producers want reassurance that the railways in particular have plans in place to mobilize staff and equipment, and that grain companies have sales programs designed to handle larger volumes. Hall added that in the 2013-14, railways claimed to be surprised by the size of the potential harvest.

“This led to a logistical nightmare for Prairie producers, one that cost them 1.5 billion dollars in lost revenues. We need to get it right this year” he concluded.

For the full audio interview with Norm Hall, click below!