​​​​​​​​​​​Winnipeg, MB  --  Today, the Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) began accepting applications for the 2012-13 cash advance program.  “Having the application forms available early in the spring is just one way we can help farmers who will soon be facing a busy field season,” says Rick White, General Manager of CCGA.

Farmers wanting to know more about how CCGA will handle wheat, durum and barley advances will be pleased to know they can now apply for all their cash advances, depending on the province of operation, using just one form and in many cases paying just one administration fee. In addition, CCGA’s website includes a fact sheet that answers many of the questions that wheat and barley producers are asking.

Through the Advance Payments Program, farmers are eligible for up to $100,000 interest-free and an additional $300,000 at CIBC prime. Producers can apply for a cash advance on a wide range of commodities, including 25 commodities in Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan, and 15 commodities in Manitoba.

Many farmers like the flexibility that a spring cash advance offers, and it is particularly useful in financing the heavy cash flow demands that farms experience through the spring. “For several weeks we’ve been receiving calls from farmers wanting to complete their cash advance applications,” says White, “so we’re very pleased that this year we are accepting applications earlier than ever before.” While CCGA is accepting early applications now, the 2012-13 program officially begins April 1, 2012 when CCGA will begin issuing payments on approved applications.

For farmers wanting to apply immediately, they can call 1-866-745-2256 to complete a telephone application.  Application forms can also be downloaded at www.ccga.ca and will also be available at many local elevators by next week. You can learn more about the Canadian Canola Growers Association and Agriculture and Agri-Food’s Advance Payments Program at www.ccga.ca.

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Contact:
Kelly Green
Director, Communications
Phone: 204.789.8821
E-mail: kellyg@ccga.ca