The CWB's new pilot program on feed barley has generated some interest in western Canada for the first time in four years, and while it pains me to say this, is an option that farmers should consider before selling feed barley on the off-board market. What this program will do is put more money in farmer's pocket rather than waiting until the pool is closed out. It is a step in the right direction for the CWB and with ample barley supplies, any additional sales they make on the feed side will be welcome. It is more profitable for truckers to stay local than move barley into Lethbridge and if the CWB's program is successful, local truckers will be booked well into December creating a transportation shortage for Lethbridge.
All signs point towards higher off-board barley prices.