Fenugreek added to Saskatchewan Pulse Growers’ mandate

Saskatchewan Pulse Growers (SPG) is pleased to announce that fenugreek will now be included under SPG’s mandate, and that there will be the creation of a mandatory, non-refundable levy for fenugreek.

SPG was approached by fenugreek producers to have the crop included under SPG’s mandate and to have a mandatory, non-refundable levy created because of SPG’s experience dealing with multiple crops including lentils, peas, soybeans, chickpeas, faba beans, and dry beans.

“Fenugreek is a small acreage crop in Saskatchewan, an estimated 3,000 – 6,000 acres in recent years. Incorporating fenugreek under an existing organization, such as SPG, would minimize overhead costs for fenugreek producers and direct more dollars to research and development,” says Brad Blackwell, SPG Board Chair.

SPG, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, conducted a vote of fenugreek producers to determine whether they supported the creation of a mandatory, non-refundable levy for fenugreek and the addition of fenugreek to SPG’s mandate. The vote occurred between March 23 and May 1, 2020. There were 87.5% of fenugreek producers that cast a vote. Of the ballots returned, 90% were in favour of creating a mandatory, non-refundable levy for fenugreek and adding fenugreek to SPG’s mandate.

Over the next number of months, SPG will seek input from fenugreek producers on priorities, develop strategies, and begin to make investments to develop the crop.

Accountable to and funded by growers, SPG’s strategic direction is guided by a seven member, grower-elected, Board of Directors. SPG’s mission is to provide leadership for profitable growth for Saskatchewan pulses.