Posted on 02/19/2010, 9:35 am, by mySteinbach

CWB directors will be reporting to farmers in a series of accountability meetings to be held in 21 communities across the Prairies in March.

The annual Farmer Forum meetings provide an opportunity for farmers to meet their elected CWB director. Producers can learn about the CWB’s past performance, as well as future market and sales outlooks. Farmers are also invited to share their views on CWB programs, services and policy. The meetings take place between March 8 and 19.

“Farmer Forums are really a win-win for farmers and their elected directors,” says Larry Hill, chair of the CWB’s farmer-controlled board of directors.

“As directors, these forums let us hear from producers and gather constructive suggestions for decision-making. For farmers, these forums provide a great opportunity to ask questions on any topic concerning their business, and to offer any suggestions for how CWB programs and services can better meet their needs.”

In 2009, feedback surveys showed that 91 per cent of attendees found Farmer Forums to be beneficial. In particular, participants said they enjoyed receiving market outlook, sales and pricing information, and appreciated the question-and-answer sessions. Farmer Forums have been a staple each spring since the formation of the farmer-controlled board of directors 11 years ago.

Farmers can register online at www.cwb.ca/forums, or by phoning 1-800-275-4292.

For a complete list of times, venues and directors, visit www.cwb.ca/forums.