variety trials

[mctom]

How does anybody feel about the alberta ag cereal and oilseed variety guide. Some people have told me that the regional trials the guide is based on aren't worth the time and money. They feel that they can get just as good info from the seed companies. I always thought the guide was better because it was unbiased. any thoughts?

[emiled]

I have always considered the Alberta Seed Guide as an excellent guide for selecting crop varieties but it not the only source of information I try to get my hands on. I will often also touch base with seed company representatives along with research and development personnel (industry and government). While the regional variety testing program always seems to be under some pressure for funding, it still provides a good source of information. My biggest concern is the emphasis or importance growers will put on the exact yield numbers listed in the guide for a particular variety for their area. Remember that while the number quoted is based on the average of yields collected from numerous sites over a number of years, it does not give you an idea of the range of variability from year to year and site to site. For example in canola a 2% yield difference between varieties is not significant (given the potential natural variability). A variety with a 10% difference would more likely be considered significant.

[craig]

The regional trials still serve a useful purpose but need some rethinking in light of today's rapidly changing industry. For example the canola numbers become of little value when by the time you have 3 years data after registration the variety is likely no longer in favor with producers. I have long been a strong advocate of allowing producers access to as much imformation as possible (regional, co-operative and private tests) to help formulate conclusions as to what might work for you. Along with that needs to be better education so that producers understand these systems and how to weigh the imformation from the various sources.

[oilcan]

Good points, the guide is useful but more info should be made available in regards to what contracts companies are offering producers for production.