Ontario Grain Farmer October 2021

40 EACH YEAR, GRAIN Farmers of Ontario facilitates the collection of wheat samples from across Ontario. The intent is to provide farmers and the grain supply chain, including wheat millers, an average representation of wheat quality in each region and overall, for the province. This sampling program provides an indication of average quality across the regions and is not a definitive number related to quality from every field or truck load. The goal of the program is to collect a representative number of samples from each region to match the production in each area and to represent across the different wheat classes grown. For example, during 2021 collection, 83 per cent of all samples collected have been soft red winter (SRW) which approximately matches how much SRW is produced in Ontario. Multiple classes of wheat are grown and marketed in Ontario due to the size and varied geography of the province. SRW is the predominant class of wheat grown in Ontario, followed by hard red winter (HRW), hard red spring (HRS), and soft white winter (SWW). Each of these classes have different uses based on their unique quality specifications and functionality. On average, domestic milling accounts for 21 per cent of wheat produced in Ontario, while the total international export market that is used for milling is 33 per cent. Ontario produces, on average, a 2.3 million tonne wheat crop. Nearly 1.3 million tonnes is destined to be milled for flour while the rest is used for animal feed. SAMPLE COLLECTION Grain Farmers of Ontario works with grain elevators across Ontario who oversee the actual collection of wheat samples during the harvest period. Samples are collected throughout the harvest period to give an indication of the wheat quality as the season progresses. These samples are sent to SGS Canada’s lab in Hensall where they receive grading and additional tests such as falling number. Grain Farmers of Ontario aggregates and publishes this information at https://gfo.ca/ market-development/exporters/ontario- wheat-quality/ which are online within roughly 14 days of the harvest date. One of the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic has been ensuring the safety of staff — both those picking up sample bags and the participating elevator staff. Ontario Wheat Harvest Survey QUALITY RESULTS Justin Shepherd Grain Farmers on Ontario started using sealed collection tubs that are left outside at elevators allowing for contactless delivery. Additional safety precautions such as wearing masks and wiping the containers with sanitizer also played a key role in ensuring everyone’s safety. 2021 RESULTS The 2021 harvest produced variable quality results from across the province with falling number a concern. The grading completed by mid-August graded the majority of wheat a Number 2 or better with protein across the classes flat to higher than last year. Market Development