CSTA Committee Workplan Contents · 1 CSTA Committee Workplan Contents Biotechnology Committee...

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CSTA Committee Workplan Contents Biotechnology Committee .................................................................................................... 3

Post Biotechnology Patent Communications ....................................................................................... 3

Plant Breeding Innovation .................................................................................................................... 3

Biotechnology Communications ........................................................................................................... 4

Low Level Presence Policy for Seed ...................................................................................................... 4

International Approvals of Biotechnology Crops .................................................................................. 5

Corn, Soybeans and Eastern Cereals Committee ................................................................... 6

Harmonization of Provincial Trials ........................................................................................................ 6

Pollinator Health ................................................................................................................................... 6

Governments of Ontario & Quebec Regulations on Neonicotinoid Treated Seed............................... 7

Labour Action / Shortages of Seasonal Workers .................................................................................. 7

Eastern Cereals Registration ................................................................................................................. 8

CSGA Variety Description Database ...................................................................................................... 8

Differential Crop Insurance Coverage ................................................................................................... 8

CSTA Representatives ........................................................................................................................... 9

Forage and Turf Committee ................................................................................................ 10

Canadian Forage Seed Project ............................................................................................................ 10

Alternative Service Delivery ................................................................................................................ 10

Statistics Canada Survey ..................................................................................................................... 11

Incorporation by Reference ................................................................................................................ 11

CSGA Mechanical Impurity Standards in Forage and Turf grasses ..................................................... 11

Forage Seed Regulatory Modernization ............................................................................................. 12

Forage and Turf Phytosanitary Issues ................................................................................................. 12

Coexistence Plan for Alfalfa Hay in Western Canada ......................................................................... 13

CSTA Representatives ......................................................................................................................... 13

Intellectual Property Committee ........................................................................................ 14

Value Creation ..................................................................................................................................... 14

Comprehensive Outreach and Education on All Forms of IP Protection ............................................ 14

Granting Crop Certificates................................................................................................................... 15

Enhanced Role for Regulators and Inspectors .................................................................................... 15

Enhanced Role for the Seed Value Chain ............................................................................................ 15

International Conventions and Treaties on Genetic Resources ......................................................... 15

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Enhanced Linkage between PBR & Seeds Regulations with Federal / Provincial Regulations ........... 16


International Committee .................................................................................................... 17

International Trade Negotiations ........................................................................................................ 17

Non-Tariff Trade Barriers .................................................................................................................... 18

International Phytosanitary Standard ................................................................................................. 18


Oilseeds, Pulses and Western Cereals Committee .............................................................. 20

Alberta Fusarium Management Plan .................................................................................................. 20

Variety Registration and Wheat Classes ............................................................................................. 20

Canola Varietal Purity ......................................................................................................................... 21

Seed Bag Collection and Disposal ....................................................................................................... 21


Seed Applied Technologies Committee ............................................................................... 23

Positive Perception of Seed Treatment Technologies & Monitoring and Communicating with Provincial Governments ...................................................................................................................... 23

Re-Evaluation of Neonicotinoid Seed Treatments.............................................................................. 23

CFIA Modernization of Fertilizers Regulations: Biologicals, Inoculants and Micronutrients ............. 24

National Bee Health Roundtable ........................................................................................................ 24

Fugitive Dust Working Group .............................................................................................................. 25

Creation and Implementation of CropLife Canada’s Protocols for Seed Treatment Facilities ........... 25


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Biotechnology Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Kent Hall, Bayer CropScience Vice-Chair: Lucy Reed, Monsanto Secretary: Chris Hewitt, BASF Board Liaison: Doug Alderman, Pride Seeds The Biotechnology Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on issues of specific interest and importance to CSTA’s Biotech company members. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Post Biotechnology Patent Communications

High Priority & Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey

Outcome: A joint effort with CropLife Canada (CLC) to provide information and considerations for companies/individuals interested in using off-patent Biotechnology events.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - A joint CSTA / CLC working group has been meeting regularly and

has developed a timeline and proposed list of activities. A white paper has been written and has been posted to the CSTA member site. This topic has also been brought forward to the Biotechnology subcommittee of the Grains Roundtable as a priority.

An update was given to this committee by CLC.

Plant Breeding Innovation


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner to coordinate with CLC

Outcome: Domestically ensure that the Canadian product-based approval system facilitates approval of products developed through techniques other than just mutagenesis and biotechnology. Internationally, an environment that is not a repeat of the GM experience, but where countries have a uniform and harmonized approach.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA is part of an International Seed federation (ISF) working group

on Plant Breeding Innovation (PBI), whose goal is to increase understanding of new technologies, and to achieve international environments that are based on science, provide legal certainty, facilitate innovation and do not treat products developed with new techniques differently than those produced by earlier techniques.

mailto:[email protected]





https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/3..-Post-Patent-Update-for-CSTA-11-28-2017-Jen-Hubert.pdf


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CSTA is working closely with CLC and the Canada Grains Council (CGC) regarding the proposed changes to the Canadian system to handle products developed with new PBIs. CGC is chairing a value chain working group on PBI and created a high-level policy paper. A report of the May 30th, 2017 workshop has been circulated to members through Trade Winds and CSTA participated in several international meetings including: The Seed Association of the Americas (SAA) Congress in Cartagena, the ISF, and the ISF Mid-Term meetings in Montreal. An update by the CGC was given to this committee.

Biotechnology Communications

High Priority & Medium Urgency

Staff Lead: Kim Sabourin – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: Improved understanding of plant breeding using biotechnology to avoid uninformed actions such as mandatory labelling.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA continues to work with partners in the value chain to provide

information on biotechnology. We have produced a series of fact sheets on biotech, which are used when mandatory labelling questions come up. They need to be updated. We watch and point to information sources like Farm & Food Care and CLC. ISF has developed a communications toolkit for use by its members. CSTA will work with CLC and CGC to make the best use of the tool.

Low Level Presence Policy for Seed

Medium Priority & Low Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Kent Hall

Outcome: A domestic policy for Low Level Presence (LLP) in seed that works with the LLP policy for grain and is exportable to facilitate trade.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - An international LLP policy to facilitate international trade of seed

has been a priority for CSTA. Canada is a leader in the development of policy for LLP in grain but has so far excluded seed. International efforts at the ISF, SAA, and the International Life Sciences Institute have been proceeding with CSTA participation. CSTA will focus on evaluating the proposed domestic policy on grain for its impacts on seed and continue to be actively involved with the international work at the ISF, SAA and other organizations.

In September 2016, the Government of Canada published a Policy Model – Managing LLP of Genetically Modified Crops in Imported Grain, Food and Feed. Dave Carey is the new Chair of the LLP in Seed Working Group and has been working with Agriculture and Agri-food Canada (AAFC) to update the environmental scan. A call of the working group was held at the end of 2017 to set direction for 2018.

https://canadagrainscouncil.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/CGC-PBI-policy.pdf

https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/KThomas-presentation-CSTA-V2.pdf


http://www.worldseed.org/our-work/plant-breeding/plant-breeding-innovation/#resource-bank



http://www.agr.gc.ca/eng/policy-model-managing-low-level-presence-of-genetically-modified-crops-in-imported-grain-food-and-feed/?id=1472836695032

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International Approvals of Biotechnology Crops

Medium Priority & Low Urgency Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner to coordinate with CLC – Expertise: Kent Hall

Outcome: Update the Canadian Seed Growers Association (CSGA) Circular 6’s mechanical purity standards in forages and turf grasses that reflect practical, modern standards.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - The challenge is an international one, and in many countries, approvals of biotech products for planting are not high priorities. We are active participants in international forums including ISF, SAA and the Global Alliance for Agriculture Biotechnology Trade.

This committee received an update from CLC.



https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/CSTA-Nov-2017-CropLife-Update.pdf

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Corn, Soybeans and Eastern Cereals Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Rick Van Laecke, Horizon Seeds Vice-Chair: Phil Bailey, SeCan Secretary: Sean Dawe, Syngenta Canada Board Liaison: Marty Vermey, Dow AgroSciences

The Corn, Soybeans and Eastern Cereals Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on issues of specific interest and importance to CSTA’s corn, soybean and eastern cereals seed company members. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Harmonization of Provincial Trials


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Shawn Winter

Outcome: That the necessary steps be taken to standardize the provincial corn testing trials. Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - A working group of the committee was formed to discuss the

necessary steps that need to be taken to harmonize provincial corn trials. The working group developed 12 recommendations which have been sent to each provincial corn committee.

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) held a meeting with CSTA corn companies, the Ontario Corn Committee and academia to explore a mutually beneficial system. An update was given to this committee.

CSTA and GFO committed to cooperate to improve the standards. Resolution: That CSTA communicate to the Maritime and Pacific corn testing organizations that in the

view of CSTA, their trial execution and reporting methods are not acceptable and therefore do not provide information of value to growers. The CSTA would like an opportunity to undertake a detailed discussion as to how these inadequacies can be addressed. - A letter to the Pacific Corn Trial Association was sent and a conference call was held.

Pollinator Health Medium Priority & Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Doug Alderman

Outcome: That federal and provincial policy makers and regulators recognize and understand that pollinator health is complex and multi-factorial.







https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Crosby-Devitt-Update-to-CSTA-re-OCC.pdf



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Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Many recognize that pollinator health is complex, but there is still a

disproportionate amount of emphasis put on pesticides. CSTA continues to be involved with the AAFC Bee Health Roundtable and on the steering committee of Bees Matter. CSTA staff take every opportunity to remind policy makers that bee health is complex and multi-factorial.

Governments of Ontario & Quebec Regulations on Neonicotinoid Treated Seed

Medium Priority & Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey - Expertise: Stephen Denys

Outcome: That the seed industry can quantify the impact of these regulations on the cost of doing business.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Ontario: The regulations came into force on July 1st, 2015. Steps

will be taken to design criteria to better understand, track and quantify the economic impact of these regulations (Human Resources, Replants, Oversight, Liability, Licensing Costs, etc.). The regulations are in place and the Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) commissioned study should soon be available. Until the next election there is not a viable option to move the needle.

Quebec: The consultation period is over. CSTA awaits the implementation of the new

regulations and should monitor/educate/engage.

Labour Action / Shortages of Seasonal Workers


Staff Lead: Dave Carey - Expertise: Ron Meulemeester

Outcome: That CSTA undertake a process to examine the possibility of seed to be listed on the National Commodity List to access the Temporary Foreign Worker program.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA staff continue to be in contact with Service Canada staff to

follow up on this issue. CSTA has been working closely with CSGA, the Ontario Corn Seed Growers and the Canadian Agriculture Human Resources Council (CAHRC) to move the needle on allowing access to labour for all seed types. A joint letter with background research was sent to the government and a meeting was held with senior government officials in October 2017. An update was given to this committee by CSGA. CSTA joined the Canadian Agricultural Human Resource Council (CAHRC) to move this file forward.





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Eastern Cereals Registration

Medium Priority & Urgency Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Ellen Sparry

Outcome: An efficient, predictable variety registration system that facilitates access to markets and delivers new varieties to farmers in a timely manner.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 – CSTA’s policy on variety registration has been well reflected in the new policy that has been supported by the government. We continue to advocate that Eastern Cereals be moved out of Part I and into Basic registration.

The Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) has established working groups to discuss and explore this topic. Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds and Dave Harwood, DuPont Pioneer have participated in two meetings of the working group.

Another call was scheduled for January 2018.

CSGA Variety Description Database


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: CSGA manages a database of variety descriptions to support the certification of varieties not subject to Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) Variety Registration requirements. Data integrity, administrative issues and other questions routinely arise, some of which raise policy questions.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSGA provided an update to this committee.

Differential Crop Insurance Coverage


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Ellen Sparry

Outcome: The Board of Directors passed the following motion in July 2016: ‘That CSTA support Agricorp in the development of differential crop insurance products for producers that

purchase certified seed vs farm saved seed.’

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA staff have had informal discussions with several provincial government officials on this topic and at this point we have not received any indication that this is something they are open to exploring.

This item should be pursued by Seed Synergy.




https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/CSGA-Presentation-for-CSEC-Committee-Nov-2017-mike-scheffel.pdf



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CSTA Representatives

Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner

CSTA appointed the following individuals to represent the Association externally:

Atlantic Committee on Field Crops: Rafael Gonzalez, Atlantic Farm Services Inc.

RGCQ Cereal, Corn, and Soybean Committees: Alexandre Mailloux, La Coop fédérée

Ontario Cereal Crops Committee: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Ontario Corn Committee: Shawn Winter, Maizex Dave Harwood, DuPont Pioneer Rick Van Laecke, Horizon Seeds

Ontario Soybean and Canola Committee: Jerome Auclair, La Coop fédérée

Manitoba Corn Committee: Wilt Billing, CPS Bruce Murray, Monsanto Allan Froese, Maizex

Alberta Corn Committee: Talbot Bergsma, Dow Seeds

GFO Grain Industry Advisory Committee: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Ontario Agri-Business Association: Keith Brimner, Pride Seeds

CSTA thanks all members who represent the Association.















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Forage and Turf Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Erick Lutterotti, Gold Medal Seeds Vice-Chair: Christian Duchesneau, Synagri Secretary: Joel Rey, BrettYoung Seeds Board Liaison: Darrell Dziver, BrettYoung Seeds The Forage and Turf Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on issues of specific interest and importance to CSTA’s forage and turf seed company members. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Canadian Forage Seed Project



Outcome: Continued supply of Canadian Forage Seed Project (CFSP) varieties to the seed sector and to farmers, maintained in partnership between AAFC and the Seed Trade.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA is the liaison between AAFC and managing companies for CFSP

varieties. In addition to working to ensure that adequate supplies of breeder seed are available to the managing companies, we strive to ensure that adequate supplies of foundation seed are available to the trade and growers.

An update was given by AAFC on the current situation regarding maintenance of CFSP

varieties at the Kansas City Meeting. CSTA will also consult with its members to see if the survey of potential demand is worthwhile.

Alternative Service Delivery


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Darrel Dziver

Outcome: Alternative Service Delivery (ASD) of seed crop inspection should be extended to forage and turf crops. That non-3rd party inspection is included as an option for ASD. Availability of adequate training for forage inspectors.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA continues to make this request to the CFIA and the CSGA. CFIA

stated in November 2016 that this will not be a priority for them for the 2016/17 year due to resources.






https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Canadian-Seed-Forage-Project.pdf



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CSTA continues to advocate strongly for the inclusion of Forage crops in CFIA’s training of inspectors. CFIA provided this committee an update at the Kansas City meeting. Action Item: CSTA to send survey to members to determine level of interest/want for ASD.

Statistics Canada Survey


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: A more comprehensive and representative survey of forage seed sales be designed by Statistics Canada.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA has been in touch with Statistics Canada and will send a

draft of the new survey to the Forage and Turf Committee members when available for review and comment.

Incorporation by Reference


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Wayne Unger

Outcome: Remove the Weed Seeds Order and Grade Tables from Regulations into a standalone forage quality manual to enable more timely changes.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA has been actively advocating with the Government of Canada

to use Incorporation by Reference (IbR). CFIA has published an updated IbR Policy that includes Acts relevant to CSTA within its scope, including the Seeds Act and the Plant Protection Act. An update from the Incorporation by Reference Working Group was given to the Intellectual Property Committee at the July AGM. The group reconvened in mid-November 2017 and presented a recommendation to the Seed Sector Value Chain Round Table in February 2018.

CSGA Mechanical Impurity Standards in Forage and Turf grasses Medium Priority & Low Urgency

Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Erick Lutterotti

Outcome: Updated CSGA Circular 6’s mechanical purity standards in forages and turf grasses that reflect practical, modern standards.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSGA released a survey requesting input that was distributed to CSTA members through Trade Winds. CSGA is currently evaluating the responses and determining changes. CSGA provided an update to this committee at the Kansas City meeting. CSGA is striking a working group to update Circular 6 and CSTA has appointed the following representatives: Gold Medal Seeds, DLF Pickseed, BrettYoung and CDC

https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/CFIA_ACIA-10055753-v2-2017-PDF-of-10049140-CSTA-Forage-and-Turf-Kansas-City-Nov-4-2017.pdf






https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/CSGA-Update.pptx

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Forage Seed Regulatory Modernization


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Scott Bowman

Outcome: Predictable, simplified and consistent regulations for forage seed quality management, tagging and labelling.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CFIA has raised this with the committee a number of times. The

request was for the sector to identify its needs and to be ready for a review to begin in 2016.

Questions to consider: How much regulation is necessary? What can be taken out of regulation and done by industry? CFIA indicated their intent to make regulatory changes in their ‘CFIA Forward Regulatory

Plan: 2017–19’ in March 2017. Further detailed discussion is happening within the Seed Synergy collaboration. CSTA will keep the Forage and Turf Committee in the loop and request feedback though the Seed Synergy initiative. A presentation was given to this committee.

Forage and Turf Phytosanitary Issues

Low Priority & Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Darrel Dziver

Outcome: A) A transparent and achievable policy on the presence of soil in seed that is communicated to the seed sector.

B) A return to a 60-day time frame between sampling for phytosanitary certificates and exports for the seed sector.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - For some time, CSTA has been trying to get CFIA to issue definitive information on the presence of soil in seed. The unwritten rule has been “no visible soil peds” but since it isn’t written, and there is no definition of a soil ped, the policy is interpreted by trading partners and others as no soil visible, even under a microscope. CSTA is still working with CFIA management to develop a policy and communication.

CFIA notified the seed sector that in order to fit the policy for grain exports, the 60-day period between sampling and export has been cut in half. After 30 days, new sampling and testing would have to be done. CSTA has met with CFIA to outline why this does not work for the seed sector and has requested that seed be returned to 60 days.

A) There is no initiative by CFIA to change this approach at this time.

B) CSTA has been in correspondence with CFIA on this matter.

Should staff be pushing harder for a return to 60 days and the development of a tolerance policy? Are there other phytosanitary issues that should be raised?





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Coexistence Plan for Alfalfa Hay in Western Canada


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Joel Rey

Outcome: Working with the value chain, ensure coexistence plan for alfalfa hay in western Canada is available. Investigate BMPs for alfalfa seed production in Western Canada.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Coexistence Plan for Alfalfa Hay in Western Canada was published in April 2016 and is available publicly. CSTA has corresponded with the Alberta provincial government with an offer to participate in further discussion about coexistence of alfalfa.




Alberta Alfalfa Seed Commission: Erik Lutterotti, Gold Medal Seeds

CRAAQ Forage Committee: Christian Duchesneau, Synagri

Manitoba Forage Advisory Committee: Brad Pinkerton, SeCan

Manitoba Forage Seed Association: Gerry Duynisveld, Northstar Seeds

Ontario Forage Committee: Ari Eckstein, Quality Seeds

Saskatchewan Forage Seed Development Commission: Clayton Myhre, DLF Pickseed




http://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/CSTA_CoExist_brochure_West_April-29.pdf








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Intellectual Property Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Carol Saunders, Dow AgroSciences Vice-Chair: Darcy Pawlik, Syngenta Secretary: VACANT Board Liaison: Todd Hyra, SeCan The Intellectual Property Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on issues related to the protection of intellectual property. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Value Creation


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Erin Armstrong & Lorena Pahl

Outcome: A system that allows plant breeders to capture value from the value chain for investment in plant breeding and variety development.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA policy outlines its requirements for any value capture system

but is not specific to a model. This item was moved from the Oilseeds, Pulses and Western Cereals Committee. The

duration of this committee meeting focused on value creation in cereals with an end goal of developing a recommendation for consideration by the CSTA Board of Directors. There was no consensus reached but a commitment to work through the Seed Synergy process.

Comprehensive Outreach and Education on All Forms of IP Protection


Staff Lead: Kim Sabourin – Stakeholder Relations WG

Outcome: Stakeholders in the value chain have access to comprehensive information and training to help them understand the use and requirements of all forms of IP protection tools; how they relate to each other and the obligations they have when accessing protected material.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Is there more that CSTA should be doing to communicate about

Intellectual Property? Are there any gaps?








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Granting Crop Certificates


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Lorne Hadley

Outcome: The Board of Directors passed the IP Committee motion in July 2016: “That CSTA continue to work in conjunction with CSGA to examine the issue of crop

certificates granted to those unauthorized to grow a seed crop of a UPOV 1991 Variety.” Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA staff will engage a small working group to discuss further and

plan a path forward.

Enhanced Role for Regulators and Inspectors

Medium Priority & Low Urgency Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: Inspectors and regulatory staff are trained and directed to recognize potential violations of IP, to discuss them with the suspected violators, and to report the potential violation to the rights holder or Canadian Plant Technology Agency (CPTA).

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Part of the Seed Synergy discussion is about addressing issues related to IP. Is there still a desire to push for CFIA to be involved given resource constraints?

Enhanced Role for the Seed Value Chain



Outcome: A code of conduct and training for seed quality testers, seed processors and retailers to ensure that they are not contributing to IP infringements.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Suggest that this work plan item be merged and added to the work

plan item immediately below. This is also a topic of discussion under the Seed Synergy Project.

International Conventions and Treaties on Genetic Resources



Outcome: A) To ensure that our members understand international treaties on genetic resources and access and benefit sharing; and how it relates to their businesses.







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B) To ensure that access and benefit sharing requirements of international conventions and protocols have as little negative impact on private sector plant breeding and seed trade as possible.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA has worked closely with plant breeders and government officials to build awareness in our sector from presentations at conventions to webinars. CSTA also developed an international “Information tree” to help guide plant breeders through the steps when looking to acquire genetic resources.

CSTA has made input to government consultations on international protocols and funding of international benefit sharing funds. Next steps are to continue to advise government as it develops Canada’s positioning on international treaties.

On short notice there was an international meeting on International Conventions and Treaties on Genetic Resources. ISF has also released a Declaration of Committee signed by 20 companies. This document is available on the Members’ Section of the CSTA website and will be explored further by staff.

Enhanced Linkage between PBR & Seeds Regulations with Federal / Provincial

Regulations


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Lorne Hadley

Outcome: A common definition of “variety name” in regulations (Seeds Regulations, Grain Regulations and Crop Insurance Regulations) and consistency in the regulations on the

use of variety names – only used if certified seed was used to grow the grain. Penalties for misuse of variety names.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - There was a presentation on Variety Naming given at the 2017 AGM. On the last call of the Variety Naming Working Group it was decided to suspend the work on variety naming pending outcomes of seed Synergy and value creation as both may have a large impact on the variety naming file.




CFIA Plant Breeders’ Rights Advisory Committee: Todd Hyra, SeCan






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International Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Alfonso Parra, Bayer CropScience Vice-Chair: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds Secretary: Claire Cowan, North American Plant Genetics Board Liaison: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds The International Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on International issues that do or can impact the achievement of CSTA’s “open trade of seed” objective. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

International Trade Negotiations



Outcome: Removal of tariffs and subsidies on seed for sowing and the inclusion of technical and phytosanitary measures on seed in Canada’s requests. Inclusion of Low Level Presence (LLP) policy for seed in all requests.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA comments on the launch of regional and bilateral trade

negotiations identifying bound and applied tariffs and requesting their elimination. We also identify any non-tariff barriers and ask for them to be addressed in offer exchanges. CSTA is part of the Trade Negotiations Advisory Group and continues to make our specific needs known. CSTA also works with CFIA and AAFC to ensure that the needs of the seeds sector are known when countries notify trade measures to the World Trade Organization (WTO). CSTA participated on bi-weekly calls with the Market Access Secretariat for updates on the NAFTA renegotiation. Since the July AGM the Canada-EU CETA and the Canada-Ukraine FTA have both come into force. Canada is now in the preliminary stages of consulting on a trade deal with the remaining TPP 11 countries (Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore and Vietnam). Discussions are still underway between Canada and China on a potential FTA. AAFC negotiators provided an update to this committee by phone.







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Non-Tariff Trade Barriers


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Darrell Dziver

Outcome: A process to identify and respond to proposed actions and policies around the world that could impact Canada’s seed exporters.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA monitors WTO notifications and interacts with government

and industry through the International Seed Federation (ISF) and the Seed Association of the Americas (SAA) to identify and respond to both international and domestic policy and other decisions that affect seed trade.

CSTA staff continue to monitor and engage as needed. In October, CSTA, working with members, ASTA and the AMSAC, met with the Mexican government and were able to convince them to change their new import requirements for corn seed from Canada.

International Phytosanitary Standard


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: An International Phytosanitary Standard for seed that facilitates trade and is based in science.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA was a strong part of the effort to develop and implement a

regional standard for North America. That standard served as a template for an international standard.

CSTA participates in ISF and SAA work at the International Plant Protection Convention

(IPPC) and had attended the IPPC CPM meetings for the past four years. At the IPPC CPM meeting in Incheon, Korea, the 183 contracting countries adopted the International Standard for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPM) for seed. There is now an 18-month implementation period. North American Plant Protection Organization (NAPPO) is in the process of organizing regional workshops to help seed companies understand the impact of the new standard.

CFIA provided an update to this committee.




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International Seed Federation:

Board of Directors: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Secretaries: Dave Carey, CSTA

Communications Committee: Kim Sabourin, CSTA

Field Crops Section: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Forage and Turf Section: Darrell Dziver, BrettYoung

Breeders’ Committee: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Plant Breeding Innovation: Dave Carey, CSTA

Sustainable Agriculture: Ellen Sparry, C&M Seeds

Trade Rules and Arbitration: Darrell Dziver, BrettYoung

Phytosanitary Committee: Darrell Dziver, BrettYoung

Seed Applied Technologies Committee: Dave Carey, CSTA

Seed Association of the Americas’:

Phytosanitary Working Group: Scott Horner, HyTech Production

Biotechnology Working Group: Dave Carey & Claudio Feulner, CSTA

Seed Treatment Working Group: Scott Horner, HyTech Production Alfonso Parra, Bayer CropScience

Intellectual Property Working Group: Dave Carey & Claudio Feulner, CSTA

Global Alliance for Agriculture Biotechnology and Trade: Claudio Feulner, CSTA

North American Plant Protection Organization: Claudio Feulner, CSTA























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Oilseeds, Pulses and Western Cereals Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Denise Schmidt, FP Genetics Vice-Chair: Tom Greaves, Pitura Seeds Secretary: Wade Stocker, Bayer CropScience Board Liaison: George Lammertsen, Bayer CropScience The Oilseeds, Pulses and Western Cereals Committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on matters of specific interest and importance to CSTA’s oilseed, pulses and western cereal seed company members. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Alberta Fusarium Management Plan


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Kelly Chambers

Outcome: A Fusarium management plan in Alberta that is based in science and that gives Alberta farmers access to quality seed.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - A group of value chain associations have been meeting regularly

since February 2017 and had a meeting with the Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Forestry in August 2017. A representative from the Industry Lead Working Group provided the Committee with an update and the Alberta Government’s consultation plans.

Variety Registration and Wheat Classes


Staff Lead: Claudio Feulner – Expertise: Erin Armstrong

Outcome: That the relationship between variety registration and Grain Commission wheat classes be clarified. A clear, predictable, effective and efficient variety registration system.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA requested this as part of our input to the Canada Grains

Council’s (CGC) consultations on wheat class amendments. CSTA provided input to CFIA related to their proposed Model Operating Procedures. CSTA continues to work with the value chain and the CFIA and CGC to clarify the relationship between variety registration and wheat classification.

An update was given to this committee.







https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/Nov-27.17-FHB-WG-Update-to-CSTA-FINAL-Erin-G..pdf



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Canola Varietal Purity


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Kevin McNaughton

Outcome: An amendment to AOSCA standards to bring varietal purity standards for canola more in line with other purity standards (e.g. hybridity).

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Proposals for varietal purity standard amendments have been

made to CFIA and the CSGA, with negative results. Hybrid Canola Companies have had initial discussions with the Canola Council of Canada, CSGA and CFIA and will provide updates to this committee as they become available.

Seed Bag Collection and Disposal Medium Priority & Urgency


Outcome: There is a cost-effective and efficient system in place for the collection and safe disposal of empty seed bags.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CleanFARMS now has a permanent seed and pesticide bag

collection program in Eastern Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes. CleanFarms did some exploratory work regarding a pilot program for Western Canada but at this point do not have an economically viable disposal site. CSTA will continue to monitor and provide support as needed.




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Alberta Fusarium Action Committee: Trent Whiting, SeCan

Alberta Regional Variety Advisory Committee: Scott Horner, HyTech Production (identify new representative from members already attending)

Canola Variety Testing: Janice Cuthbert, DL Seeds Jared Veness, Bayer CropScience Wade Stock, Cargill

Manitoba Crop Variety Evaluation Team: Brad Pinkerton, SeCan Peter Entz, Richardson Int.

Ontario Pulse Crop Committee: TBD

Prairie Recommending Committee: Wheat, Rye Triticale, CVP: Herman Wehrle, FP Genetics (backup) Hayley Butler, Limagrain Cereals

Prairie Recommending Committee Oilseeds: Todd Hyra, SeCan

Saskatchewan Advisory Council on Grain Crops: Colin Tanner, Alliance Seed

Western Canola/Rapeseed Recommending Committee: Kevin McCallum, DL Seeds (Feb ‘18)

Western Canola/Rapeseed Recommending Committee Breeder: Alan Grombacher, CPS Canada (Feb ‘18)
















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Seed Applied Technologies Committee Work Plan

November 2017

Chair: Brent Collins, Bayer CropScience Vice-Chair: Curtis Van Laecke, Horizon Seeds Secretary: Mike Verhoef, Univar Canada Board Liaison: Duane Johnson, Syngenta Canada The Seed Applied Technologies committee of CSTA advises and informs the CSTA Board of Directors on issues related to the domestic and international regulation of seed applied technologies and treated seed. This work plan is a “living document” that is designed to assist the committee to focus on the policy direction of CSTA and to achieve the strategic goals supported by the CSTA Board of Directors.

Positive Perception of Seed Treatment Technologies & Monitoring and

Communicating with Provincial Governments


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Brent Collins & Scott Ewert

Stakeholder Relations Working Group (SRWG)

Outcome: Seed Treatments are viewed by industry and the public as essential tools in modern agriculture that increase productivity while protecting the environment. CSTA is actively engaged in proactive communication with the provincial governments regarding seed applied technologies.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA and our value chain partners frequently outline the importance

and benefits of seed treatment technologies in submissions, press releases and discussions with policy makers and regulators. Scott Ewert has been appointed to the SRWG to provide the seed applied technologies perspective as recommended by the Committee. CSTA has reached out to every provincial Minister of Agriculture and Environment or their equivalent and has received very positive feedback. CSTA commissioned a report from AgInfomatics about seed treatments as part of the AAFC Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Neonicotinoids. A copy of the study has been made available through Trade Winds and was discussed at this committee.

Re-Evaluation of Neonicotinoid Seed Treatments


Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Stephen Denys

Outcome: That the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) of Health Canada continues to use a risk, science-based approach to re-evaluating neonicotinoids.








https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/Value-of-Seed-Treatments-Final.pdf



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Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - Imidacloprid, Clothianidin and Thiamethoxam re-evaluations will

likely be published in spring 2018. PMRA and CLC have both provided an update to this committee.

CFIA Modernization of Fertilizers Regulations:

Biologicals, Inoculants and Micronutrients



Outcome: That CFIA has a modern, accessible and flexible regulatory system that allows for the timely introduction and registration or regulation of new biological and inoculants.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - The regulations have been amended and were posted on Canada

Gazette Part 1 in February 2015. CFIA is now projecting publication in Canada Gazette Part 1 in March 2018. This would be followed by a 75-day public comment period prior to publication in Gazette Part 2. A copy of a presentation given to Fertilizer Canada by CFIA at the end of October 2017 is available in the Members’ Login section of our website.

National Bee Health Roundtable Medium Priority & Urgency

Staff Lead: Dave Carey – Expertise: Chris Davison

Outcome: A National Bee Health Roundtable is formed that promotes, enhances and educates on the importance of bee health and a thriving apiculture and agriculture industry.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - A National Bee Health Roundtable has been formally established

and CSTA is a member of the Steering Committee. Next steps include the conclusion of several important initiatives and an increase in proactive communications products. This is now a formal AAFC roundtable and would suggest that the priority and urgency be reduced, and updates be given to this committee as needed.

NEW: Issues with PMRA Knowledge Gaps Regarding the Importation of Treated Seed

& Legal Concerns


Staff Lead: TBD – Expertise: TBD

Outcome: Clarification on the issues: A) Seed treatments registered in the US but not in Canada B) Chemicals registered in Canada for other uses e.g. foliar

https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/3.-PMRA-Update-to-CSTA-Nov.-28.pdf

https://seedinnovation.ca/wp-content/uploads/2016/08/2016-07-12-CropLife-re-eval-update-CSTA.pdf




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Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - PMRA approached CSTA to educate members about legal procedure regarding the importation of treated seed. PMRA revealed to have severe data and knowledge gaps concerning the importation of treated seed.

Fugitive Dust Working Group



Outcome: Create an industry lead voluntary standard for fugitive dust. Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - CSTA staff will re-engage the working group in the short-term to

determine a path forward.

Creation and Implementation of CropLife Canada’s Protocols for Seed Treatment

Facilities Medium Priority & Low Urgency


Outcome: CSTA members are fully informed and aware of the new protocols and the accompanying responsibilities.

Progress: Updated, Nov. 2017 - The product listing has now been identified by CLC members as

seed treatment products that are to be used exclusively in commercial seed treatment operations that have successfully completed the Accredited Seed Treatment Operations Standards audit. Effective January 1, 2018 only seed treatment operations that have successfully completed an audit with an Agrichemical Warehousing Standards Association (AWSA) auditor will be eligible to receive shipments of designated seed treatment products from distributors or ag-retailers. An electronic copy of the Accredited Seed Treatment Operation Standards can be found here: www.awsa.ca



CSTA appoints individuals to represent the Association externally.

Ontario Neonic Working Group (ad-hoc): Stephen Denys, Maizex

Pest Management Advisory Committee (PMAC) to the Minister of Health: Dave Carey, CSTA






http://www.awsa.ca/




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