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Section II - Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

Analysis by Program Activity

The CGC is organized around four strategic outcomes that reflect the planned direction of the CGC as well as the daily delivery of the CGC’s program activities. The four strategic outcomes are:

A grain quality assurance system that addresses the changing requirements of domestic and international grain markets
A grain quantity assurance system that addresses the changing needs of the grain industry
Research and development on grain quality that enhances the marketability of Canadian grain
Producers’ rights are supported to ensure fair treatment within the grain handling system

To illustrate the significance of each strategic outcome, the CGC has identified corresponding program activities and resources required. Each program activity has associated ongoing key programs or services with their own expected results. This section provides detailed information on the CGC’s achievements for each program activity and each key program or service during the 2006-2007 reporting period.

Corporate infrastructure and government-wide initiatives are fundamental to achieving results and are factored into delivering the strategic outcomes using the CGC’s costing model. The discussion and achievements relevant to the CGC’s activities on government-wide initiatives and corporate infrastructure are found in Section IV.

Strategic Outcome 1: A grain quality assurance system that addresses the changing requirements of domestic and international grain markets.

Program Activity: Deliver inspection and testing services

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$ 49 363	$49 894	$41 566

**Human Resources**
Planned	Authorities	Actual
458	458	390

An effective grain quality assurance system supports the enhanced marketability of Canadian grain which benefits producers and the grain industry. Daily provision of grain inspection services supported by a strong scientific and technical base (e.g. testing grain or milling, baking, or cooking of end-use products) form a major part of the quality assurance system.

There are major challenges facing the CGC and the GQAS including: increased international emphasis on end-use functionality, growing global competition, and shifting domestic crop production and volume fluctuations. It is vital that the grading system and CGC services are continually adapted to the end-use needs of international and domestic buyers of Canadian grain, and to the ongoing structural changes within the grain industry.

Delivering inspection and testing services supports departmental Priority #1 and departmental Priority #2. Delivering inspection and testing services supports not only ongoing delivery of the CGC mandate, but also positions Canada with a sustainable competitive advantage in global grain markets. Addressing Priority #4 is critical in order for the CGC to continue fulfilling its statutory mandate and maintain service levels to producers and the grain industry.

The overall expected result of delivering inspection and testing services is increased buyer satisfaction through delivery of consistent Canadian grain quality and increased marketability of Canadian grain.

The following related key programs and services provide details on how the CGC was successful in meeting the expected outcomes and priorities associated with delivering inspection and testing services during the 2006-2007 reporting period.

Key Program or Service:

1. Deliver inspection and testing services for the quality assurance system

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$39 809	$40 237	$33 212

Provision of grain inspection and grading services forms a major part of the quality assurance system. The CGC delivers inspection services in accordance with the legislative mandate of the CGA in order to meet the requirements of the grain industry from producers to customers.

Grades allow buyers to identify end-use value without the need for end-use tests or direct examination of individual lots of grain. This improves the efficiency of grain handling and helps to ensure that sellers receive payment that reflects the value of their grain. A broad spectrum of producers and grain industry representatives meet several times annually, through the Western and Eastern Standards Committees and commodity-specific subcommittees, to study and review grain standards, ensuring relevance and value of those standards in facilitating the movement of grain and transfer of ownership.

The expected result of this key program is ongoing data collection and analysis that supports an effective GQAS to facilitate and maintain the marketability of Canadian grain and customer satisfaction. Daily provision of inspection and testing services for the quality assurance system is a key mandate supporting program that contributes to departmental Priority #1.

To measure its success in delivering this key program and achieving the expected results, the CGC uses the following tools:

Tracking the number of samples inspected and the number of grade changes on official re-inspections (appeals of official inspection)
A monitoring and verification process for the inspection of grain (cargo quality monitoring program)
Ongoing monitoring and analysis of customer feedback received through the CGC’s 1-800 line and directly from users of CGC services
Tracking customer feedback as part of the ISO 9001:2000 Quality Management System
Tracking buyer complaints on the accuracy of CGC certification (cargo complaints) on a weekly basis, through a comprehensive database of grain unloads

The following ongoing activities and programs are integral components of delivering inspection and testing services. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Developing, changing, and setting grain quality standards as well as generating and distributing grain quality data and information, in partnership with the grain industry, to meet specific industry and buyer needs through the Western and Eastern Standards Committee meetings http://grainscanada.gc.ca/regulatory/standards/standards-e.htm	Reviewed specific quality traits and grading factors that were perceived as problematic through discussions with representatives of the domestic industry. Semi-annual meetings of the Western Standards Committee (WSC) were held in April 2006 and October 2006. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Regulatory/Standards/w_standards-e.htm Semi-annual meetings of the Eastern Standards Committee (ESC) were held in June 2006 and November 2006. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Regulatory/Standards/e_standards-e.htm Eleven standards and guides were prepared by the CGC, approved by the WSC, and released in November to the grain industry in western Canada. Approved all other pre-existing standards and guides for continued use in the 2006-2007 crop year. The ESC approved 8 new CGC prepared guides and standards for grain industry use in eastern Canada. Approved all other pre-existing standards and guides for continued use in the 2006-2007 crop year. Two standards were approved with a Canada designation (used across Canada).
Maintain an effective Quality Management System as per ISO 9001:2000 Standards. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/newsroom/news_releases/2004/2004-03-11-e.htm	The Industry Services Division of the CGC is ISO 9001:2000 certified. An internal audit was conducted in October 2006. Completed external audits in Headquarters and regions for re-certification in September 2006. A total of 319 inspection, weighing, or management related improvement requests were submitted by staff as a result of audits or general interest in the procedures.
Providing an unbiased process for appeal of official inspections to producer car users, and primary, transfer, and terminal elevator operators who disagree with the grades assigned by CGC inspectors. There are three levels of appeal: The regional inspector, the Chief Grain Inspector, and the Grain Appeal Tribunal. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/regulatory/grainappeal/tribunal-e.htm	Received 23,052 requests appealing the official inspection of grain on approximately 285,000 official inspections. At the regional level, 17,005 samples were reviewed. Of these, 5,344 grades were changed and 11,661 grades were upheld. The Chief Grain Inspector reviewed 4,495 samples – 1,458 grades were changed while 3,037 grades were upheld. The Grain Appeal Tribunal reviewed a total of 1,552 samples - 193 grades were changed while 1,359 grades were upheld. The Chief Grain Inspector has final authority related to the re-inspection of grades representing unofficial samples. In 2006-2007, 22,701 samples were submitted to the CGC by producers or the grain industry for grade advice. Of these, 68 samples were requested to be re-inspected of which 36 grades were changed.
Administering a national grain sanitation program to ensure that grain in the domestic licensed elevator system and grain destined for export is infestation free	Under the terms of a letter of agreement with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), the CGC conducted a total of 258 elevator inspections across Canada, inspected 16 vessels in the Port of Churchill, and provided information on 2,073 submitted samples that allowed for phytosanitary certificates to be issued by CFIA. Witnessed fumigation of 6 vessels in the eastern region. Monitored 141,307 grain samples for infestation in the regional labs across Canada. This total included samples resulting from: elevator inspections on behalf of CFIA, railcar unloads into terminal and transfer elevators, export cargoes, primary elevator shipments where the CGC provided onsite inspection, and those submitted by grain companies or producers.
Inspect and grade grain utilizing regularly updated and approved standards prior to receipt at licensed terminal elevators and prior to export from primary, transfer, or terminal elevators to enhance marketing in the interests of producers and industry	Inspected 265,816 railcars upon receipt at licensed terminal and transfer elevators. Inspected 18,528 railcars loaded from primary elevators prior to receipt at licensed terminal and transfer elevators. Inspected 25,840,909 tonnes of grain for export from terminal and transfer elevators. Standards and guides provide a visual reference tool to assist CGC and industry inspectors. Sixty complete sets (1,140 total samples) of standards and guides were distributed to CGC staff. Distributed 510 sets to grain companies. Increased sample material was collected for development of the standards and guides which allowed the CGC to provide the requested number of sets.
Provision of certificates and documentation related to the inspection of grain exports	Provided 728 Certificate Finals, 3,082 Letters of Assurance, 9,427 Letters of Analysis, 747 official Probe Certificates, and certified 2,593 samples submitted for grading by producers and 20,108 by grain companies.
Manage and update data in the grain inventory accounting system (GIAS) http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca/prodser/gias/gias-e.htm	Continued to manage GIAS to ensure the accuracy of terminal and transfer elevator transactions. GIAS provides an electronic method of transferring accounting information related to grain stocks between the CGC, the Canadian Wheat Board, and all grain handling terminals. It also generates the data necessary for compiling and analyzing grain handling information for weigh-over applications.
Manage a complaint resolution process for quality of grain cargoes and conduct unload investigations upon shipper and producer request	Certified the quality of 728 cargoes and investigated complaints from buyers regarding 15 of these cargoes. Upon thorough investigation of the loading process, including analysis of cargo samples and vessel loading documentation, the CGC’s Chief Grain Inspector concluded the complaints were unsubstantiated. Managed the complaint resolution process for the quality of grain cargoes and conduct unload investigations upon shipper and producer request to ensure customer satisfaction with Canadian grain.
Monitor the grading system and verification processes	The CGC, under its National Quality Monitoring program, conducted compliance audits to monitor the application of quality assessment procedures and instructions. This program enabled the CGC to monitor quality assurance consistency between inspectors in a region and between regions to continually maintain and improve grading consistency. The IS monitoring unit re-analyzed 8,042 samples and provided feedback to staff training units and individual inspectors as required. This total included 3,604 samples representative of official railcar unloads, 1,569 incremental samples taken during vessel cargo loading, 795 samples representative of grain transferred to bins during official grain stock weigh-overs, 1,041 samples submitted by producers and grain companies, and 1,033 samples representing export by railcar to Mexico and the U.S.
Effectively communicated relevant information on grain quality assurance issues (e.g., issued official memoranda to trade), offered technical training, and transferred technology in the form of validated methods to producers and industry to support and improve the efficiency of grain grading, handling, segregation, and IP systems.	Issued 6 Memoranda to the Trade and numerous press releases including: notification of changes to the Official Grain Grading Guide (OGGG), excreta detection in grain, condominium storage, variety designation lists, shipments to Mexico, KVD, grain on the ground, moisture testing for corn, notification of new forms on CGC website, severely sprouted tolerances, and elevator licensing. Met with various groups to discuss the potential implementation of new technology such as Acurum, NIR for chlorophyll, and RVA. Advised the industry of our decision to convert our official use of moisture machines to model 1200A from model 919/3.5. CGC training staff performed industry training in most regions, ranging from specific grading factors to complete grading training on specific commodities. Not all requests could be accommodated, as training for CGC staff took precedence. The Bayport region performed 10 technical sessions for individual clients; the Thunder Bay region provided 2 technical sessions for individual clients; and the Prairie region provided 1 training course for producers and company representatives through the Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology. CGC Head Office delivered 71 tours and offered a number of ad-hoc training sessions for industry with a specific grading factor focus. In addition, training was offered to many Canadian International Grains Institute (CIGI) groups and overseas clients. IS inspectors travelled overseas on 7 occasions to either investigate, train, or convey the quality of Canadian grain to customers.

In January 2006, the CGC contracted with Meyers Norris Penny LLP to conduct an objective economic study to quantify the benefits and costs of mandatory inward inspection and weighing to producers and industry, and to assess what effects might result from changing or eliminating these services. The consultant solicited input from a representative cross-section of producer and industry stakeholders and provided a final report to the CGC in June 2006. The report from this independent study does not make recommendations concerning CGC mandatory inward inspection and weighing, but rather clarifies the direct impacts of the services, summarizes input from key stakeholders, and provides a broad assessment of potential alternative models. While the report indicates that there are viable alternative models that could meet the expressed needs of stakeholders, substantive changes to these services would require amendments to the CGA. This study provided relevant information that will facilitate future discussions and decisions.

2. Provide scientific and technical support

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$4 927	$4 980	$4 345

Canada’s GQAS is supported by a strong scientific and technical base including testing of grains, processing into various end-use products, and assessing cooking quality.

The CGC has been testing grain for toxic substances since 1966 to monitor grain entering the licensed elevator system and to provide grain safety assurances to help marketers meet international buyer requirements. The CGC is the only government agency that provides grain safety assurances on pesticides, trace elements, mycotoxins, and fungi. Buyers of Canadian grain increasingly demand more rigorous, timely testing for chemical residues and trace elements on cargoes. For example, Japan has introduced a Food Sanitation Law that lists agricultural chemicals and their maximum toxic or harmful levels for all grains. Europe has established the European Food Safety Authority to regulate food safety in Europe and members of the European Union have embraced labelling and traceability of crops and food. These demands have increased the importance of research aimed at developing new or adapting existing analytical methods. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Grl/grain_safety/grain_safety-e.htm

The expected result of providing technical and scientific support is to increase and/or maintain current marketability levels for Canadian grains. In addition, provision of this type of information and support will enhance the optimal management of the GQAS and afford increased opportunities for various end-uses of Canadian grain (e.g., animal feed, ethanol, malting). Based on these expected results, this key program supports departmental Priorities #1 and #2.

To measure its success in delivering this program and achieving the expected results, the CGC used the following tools:

Tracking buyers’ satisfaction with the consistency of Canadian grain through regular feedback garnered by CGC scientists and technical experts from overseas or domestic buyers and processors
A monitoring and verification process for the inspection of grain (cargo quality monitoring program)

The following ongoing activities and related programs are integral components of providing scientific and technical support for the GQAS. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Ongoing monitoring of domestic and export cargoes to ensure Canadian grain is meeting tolerances in terms of domestic and international grain safety tolerances and end-use quality (e.g., toxic residues, bacterial contamination, weed seeds, insects, malting quality for specific barley varieties)	Completed quality monitoring of wheat cargoes for monthly composites of CWRS and CWAD shipments. Completed testing of wheat exports shipped from February 2006 through July 2006. The bulletin “The Quality of Western Canadian Wheat Exports 2006” is available on the CGC web-site. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/quality/wheat/exports/2006/exports06-e.pdf Evaluated the quality of all cargoes of malting barley out of the west coast. Continued monitoring vessel loading samples of canola, flax, mustard, solin and soybeans (http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/exports-e.htm). Oil, protein, free fatty acids and fatty acid composition were monitored on all oilseed export samples. Canola exports were also monitored for chlorophyll content and glucosinolates. Continued monitoring vessel loading samples of randomly selected cargo shipments of cereal grain, oilseeds and pulse crops for the presence of pesticide residue, mycotoxin, trace elements and bacteria. Continued to provide an analytical service for CGC and grain industry inspectors for testing samples of grain suspected to be contaminated with a toxic substance and provided advice and assistance on disposal. Twelve railcars and 2 grain parcels identified by grain industry inspectors were marked for suspect treated seed. Of these samples, 3 railcars and 2 submitted samples tested positive for seed treatment. All carlots were released as the concentration of treatment was determined to be below Health Canada’s (HC) maximum residue limit (MRL). No samples submitted by the trade showed concentrations of treated seed above the HC MRL. Bacterial infection, fungal infection and marker dye accounted for the stained kernels in the other samples. Developed a protocol for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) based method to detect the presence of 4 bacterial pathogens in grain. Tested 184 cargoes for these pathogens as well as their overall biological load. Tested 64 isolates of Fusarium graminearum for their toxigenic abilities in culture. Tested 36 isolates of Penicillium for their ability to produce patulin and citrinin in culture. Monitored foreign material in field peas and provided this information to the Saskatchewan and Alberta Pulse Grower Associations to meet their end-use quality requirements. Monitored weed seed content and provided this information to CFIA when requested.
Annual Harvest Survey - Assess new crop quality specific to each grain type and relevant to the marketing of each crop to provide new and ongoing geographical and quality data http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/harvsur/hs-e.htm	Provided planning, producer contact, sample handling, sorting and general analytical services to support the new crop quality survey. Completed and made available in hard copy the annual harvest survey quality results for cereal grains in a timely fashion. Published bulletins on the Quality of Western Canadian Wheat 2006, the Quality of Western Canadian Malting Barley 2006, and the Quality of Ontario Wheat 2006. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/quality/crop_qual-e.htm Completed harvest surveys for canola, flax, solin, soybean and mustard seed and provided important information to the trade and customers. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/quality/crop_qual-e.htm Completed harvest surveys for peas, lentils, chickpeas and white pea beans in a timely fashion. Published the Pulse Quality Bulletin on the CGC web-site. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/pulses/pulses-e.htm Performed an analysis of canola/mustard types by visual assessment. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/quality/Canola/canolamenu-e.htm Collected several thousand isolates of Fusarium graminearum from eight provinces to determine the chemotype proportions and their toxigenic abilities. Updated the CGC web-site on Fusarium.
Evaluate technology to measure end-use quality to improve the utilization and increase the marketability of Canadian grain	Completed the second year of a three year cooperative project led by CIGI, with Alberta Agriculture, AAFC, and the CGC to develop a commercial NIR calibration to measure metabolisable energy and other nutritional factors prior to incorporation of grains into animal feed. Undertook objective measurement of barley kernel colour and size to predict end-use malt quality. Collaborated with European Brewing Congress in developing standard methods for analysis of lipoxygenase activity and arabinoxylans in barley and malt. Evaluated RVA technology in port laboratories to objectively assess sprout damage in an operational environment. Undertook a project to compare testing results derived at industry elevators with those determined at CGC sites. Completed a research project with an international equipment manufacturer investigating the ability of image analysis to quantify the degree of frost, green, and immature wheat kernels. Evaluated using NIR technology to measure chlorophyll in canola. Worked to develop a reliable, robust reproducible method to analyze cyanogenic glycosides in flaxseeds in response to industry comments about Korea, Japan, and the European Community having tolerance levels for cyanogenic glycosides in flaxseed. However, there was not a reliable and accurate method to measure them. Evaluated imaging methods for hard vitreous kernel (HVK) determination in durum wheat.
Provide technical advice, information, and complaint resolution on grain quality (including annual impact of disease and weather damage), grain safety, and end-uses to buyers, marketers, industry and producers	Continued to certify export shipments of canola (oil, protein, chlorophyll, erucic acid, oleic acid, linolenic acid, iodine value, free fatty acids, glucosinolates), flaxseed (oil, protein, and iodine value), soybeans ( oil and protein), solin (oil, protein, and fatty acid composition) and mustard seed ( oil, protein and total glucosinolates). Provided information on the quality of new crop year wheat and barley to Japanese, South Korean, and other East Asia grain industry members as part of the annual CGC visit with international customers. Continued to participate in the Canada–Japan Canola Consults in Japan with technical discussions and crop quality reports. Generated many reports and letters upon request outlining weed seed profiles of various crops by type and grade. Conducted preliminary investigation of the impact of ruptured wheat kernels and their levels on the quality of end products. Performed detailed studies on the influence of HVK levels on the quality of wheat end products. Forwarded results to the WSC for decision in anticipation of dropping this grading factor. Provided quality information for Canadian durum wheat varieties as compared to the quality of commercially grown competitor durum wheat varieties at the request of the CWB. Provided technical advice to the Canola industry on measure of oil content by rapid method during an industry meeting organised by the Canola Council of Canada. Completed the first year of a three year collaborative study with AAFC to determine effects of agronomic practice on end-use malting barley quality. Completed a project and provided a report to members of the ESC examining potential changes in the assessment of mildew standards in soft red winter wheat.
Liaise with both international and other Canadian agencies on trade implications, to meet international standards and legislation on grain safety (e.g., Japanese Food Sanitation Law and EU tolerances for pesticides)	Continued to liaise with AAFC’s Market and Industry Services Branch on matters relating to developments in the European Union (EU) with respect to maximum limits for toxic substances in grains and inspection and testing protocols to ensure continued access for Canadian grain into EU markets. Continued to liaise with the CWB on matters related to the new Japanese Food Sanitation legislation. Continued to liaise with the Canola Council of Canada on matters related to oil content in canola. Continued to work with International Trade Canada towards a resolution of the highly restrictive inspection and testing protocols imposed by the Government of Greece for wheat imports from non-EU countries. Have undertaken several activities, including the completion of an in-depth questionnaire, towards achieving EU pre-export certification status. Shared results of the CGC APF ochratoxin A baseline study with the CWB to determine a strategy for dealing with the challenges associated with the presence of this mycotoxin in Canadian grain exports. Continued to monitor standards being developed by CODEX for pesticide residues, mycotoxins, and heavy metals in grain to determine potential implications for international grain trading.

3. Modify the system to meet changing requirements

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$4 627	$4 677	$4 009

Addressing the challenges facing Canada’s GQAS and modifying the system to meet changing domestic and international requirements is vital in making significant progress towards the realization of this program activity, but also contributes to the success of all of the CGC’s strategic outcomes.

The overall expected result of modifying the system to meet changing requirements is to improve technology and objective methods for determining quality in order to facilitate grain movement and enhance the marketability of Canadian grains. Given these expected results, this key program supports departmental Priority #2.

To measure its success in delivering this program and achieving the expected results, the CGC used the following tools:

Feedback from the annual meetings of the Eastern and Western Standards Committees with producers and the industry
Ongoing monitoring and analysis of customer feedback received through the CGC’s 1-800 line and directly from users of CGC services
Tracking buyer satisfaction with the consistency of Canadian grain through regular feedback garnered by CGC scientists and technical experts from overseas or from domestic buyers and processors

The following ongoing activities and initiatives are integral to the modification of Canada’s GQAS to meet changing requirements and address pressures on the visual based grading system. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Wheat Quality Assurance Strategy Element #1: Increase monitoring of railcar and vessel shipments for nonregistered wheat varieties	Monitored a total of 725 export vessel cargoes of CWRS wheat for visually indistinguishable nonregistered varieties and other classes. Tested a total of 3,149 CWRS daily port averages and other railcar samples for the nonregistered variety Alsen through the monitoring program set up to determine the presence of this wheat variety in grain prior to shipment from Canada. Supported CGC certification processes and ultimately maintained end-use processing quality and customer perceptions of Canadian grain.
Wheat Quality Assurance Strategy Element #2: Develop effective, timely, affordable variety identification technology	Continued development of quantitative DNA-based methods for analysis of variety composition of ground samples of grain. Developed several real-time PCR assays for wheat.
Wheat Quality Assurance Strategy Element #3: Further consultations and analysis of feedback garnered through the proposal to restructure the western wheat classes	In June 2006 the CGC announced its intent to eliminate KVD requirements for the six minor wheat classes and introduce a new Canada Western General Purpose (CWGP) wheat class effective August 1, 2008. Major elements of the plan include: No change to KVD requirements for CWRS or CWAD Elimination of KVD requirements for the minor wheat classes - Canada Western Red Winter (CWRW), Canada Prairie Spring Red (CPSR), Canada Western Soft White Spring (CWSWS), Canada Prairie Spring White (CPSW), Canada Western Extra Strong (CWES), Canada Western Hard White Spring (CWHWS) Creation of CWGP, a new wheat class with disease resistance and agronomic criteria and limited quality requirements Varieties in CWGP and the minor classes can visually resemble each other, but are not permitted to visually resemble CWRS or CWAD. Worked in close collaboration with industry stakeholders to identify the relevant processes and regulations that require development or change in order to meet the August 2008 deadline.
Develop rapid methods and systems that can assist in the identification of varieties of different quality types	Performed analyses on variety specific shipments whose identity required preservation as part of contractual industry agreements. Completed development and validation of a quantitative, DNA-based method to estimate variety composition of a ground sample of two-row barley. Nearing completion on a project to develop and/or validate qualitative and quantitative PCR methods for detection and quantification of GM canola events.
Ineligible Varieties Working Group (IVWG)	Continued participation in the IVWG to develop protocols for sampling, testing, and process verification standards in order to address ineligible varieties in grain shipments and ultimately the issuance of incorrect certification.
Operate the Canadian Identity Preserved Recognition System (CIPRS)	Continued working with industry to expand the number of certified companies. http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca/pubs/brochures/ip_recognition/ip_recognition04-e.htm Twenty-one companies have CIPRS certified IP programs, and 3 more are currently in the certification process. Developed CIPRS+, which incorporates HACCP-based requirements, in response to increased buyer demand for food safety assurances.
Contract Registration Technical Committee	Led an industry group to develop a model for handling contract registered varieties. Continued to develop a risk assessment framework to assign non-conforming wheat varieties proposed for contract registration into different risk categories. Completed the design of, and assisted in the implementation of a quality management system standard for closed-loop identity preserved programs to ensure the segregation of wheat lines with diverse risk. Continued efforts to establish monitoring requirements and costs according to risk categories. Utilized the risk assessment framework to oversee and evaluate a pilot project designed to study the performance of a closed-loop contract registration system for wheat (BW295 – which is now registered as 5400IP).
Third-Party Accreditation	Continued to develop protocols for accrediting or designating third party agencies, with CGC oversight, to perform sampling and testing in order to address inconsistencies with respect to container, rail, and bulk handling shipments to enhance the marketability and handling of Canadian grain.

Strategic Outcome 2: A grain quantity assurance system that addresses the changing needs of the grain industry.

Program Activity: Deliver weighing services

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$15 996	$16 371	$12 316

**Human Resources**
Planned	Authorities	Actual
148	148	116

The Canadian grain quantity assurance system assures the weight of grain loaded into or discharged from conveyances and in storage in the licensed terminal and transfer elevator system. This benefits both producers and the grain industry. Daily provision of grain weighing services is supported by a strong technical base and forms a major part of the CGC’s quantity assurance system as well as supports the quality assurance system.

The challenges for the grain quantity assurance system include increased requirements for quantity information to manage grain stocks and keeping up-to-date with increasingly sophisticated weighing and transfer technology in grain elevators.

This program activity directly supports departmental Priority #1. Delivery of weighing services and programs is an integral component of the ongoing provision of the CGC mandate. In addition, the ongoing review and development of weighing programs, procedures, and equipment contributes to enhancing the Canadian GQAS and departmental Priority #2. Addressing Priority #4 is critical in order for the CGC to fulfill its statutory mandate and maintain weighing service levels to the grain industry.

The overall expected result of this program activity is to implement an improved strategy to monitor client satisfaction with the CGC weighing and dispute resolution programs. The following related key programs and services provide details on how the CGC was successful during the 2006-2007 reporting period in meeting the expected outcomes and priorities associated with delivering weighing services.

Key Program or Service

1. Deliver weighing services for the quantity assurance system

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$15 007	$15 359	$11 255

The CGC delivers weighing services to meet the legislative mandate of the CGA and the requirements of the grain industry from producers to customers. Essential weighing procedures are defined within the CGC’s Quality Management System (QMS) Procedure Manual, or outlined in a QMS Work Instruction Format, and are accessed by weigh staff to ensure consistent application of procedures. CGC weighing policies and procedures are monitored and evaluated through a series of reporting policies and national discussion and review forums. Regular review of quantity assurance processes allows the CGC to adjust service procedures as necessary through Improvement Requests (IR), and also allows the CGC to identify or adjust training requirements.

The expected result of delivering weighing services for the quantity assurance system is to maintain and increase the accuracy in reporting of official weights in grain transactions in order to enhance customer satisfaction and the marketability of Canadian grain. Given this expected result, this key program supports departmental Priorities #1 and #2.

To measure its success in delivering this key program and achieving the expected results, the CGC used the following tools:

Consistently monitoring the use, by all interested parties, of CGC-generated data such as track lists and railcar exception reports, certified weighing systems reports, and official weight statements
On-site monitoring of railcar unloads and provision of critical unload data to interested parties
Monitoring producer and industry usage of, and satisfaction with, the dispute resolution system (DRS)
Tracking the number of weigh-overs performed within mandated timeframes and resolution of any discrepancies between physical stocks and officially registered grain stocks
Tracking the use of the Grain Inventory Accounting System (GIAS) and the number of adjustments to grain inventories

The following ongoing activities and programs are integral components of delivering weighing services to meet the legislative mandate of the CGA and the needs of the grain industry from producers to customers. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Deliver weighing services to maintain an effective Quality Management System as per ISO 9001:2000 Standards http://grainscanada.gc.ca/newsroom/news_releases/2004/2004-03-11-e.htm	Maintained and enhanced the effective and consistent delivery of weighing services and programs through QMS corrective measures on an ongoing basis. A total of 55 formal Improvement Requests (IR) were submitted associated with the relative procedures in the IS Quality Management System.
Establish and maintain grain quantity assurance standards	Reviewed CGC quantity assurance standards during senior weighing meetings and conference calls and supported these through the QMS and the National Weighing Training programs.
Developing monitoring systems for both weighing and grain flow verification processes	The system monitoring protocols within CGC weighing operations and dispute resolution units contributed to the identification of 37 instances where weighing processes were addressed. Continued the ongoing internal process of reviewing CGC processes used to monitor the effectiveness of facilities in preserving the identity of parcels of grain. This review and subsequent action plans are inherent in the CGC QMS and contribute to industry’s efforts in shipping identity preserved grain. The dispute resolution unit tracked 819 partially unloaded railcars through to completion (At times mechanical difficulties with railcars require correction before the complete car can be unloaded). The weighing unit tracked the separate unload portions and combined them to account for the completed weight of a railcar.
Weigh grain prior to receipt at licensed terminal elevators and prior to export from terminal or transfer elevators	Officially weighed and certified 285,240 railcar unloads upon receipt at licensed terminal and transfer elevators. Monitored and certified 31,420,172 tonnes of grain prior to export from terminal and transfer elevators.
Weigh grain prior to shipment from licensed primary elevator	Officially weighed 3,053 railcars destined for Mexico at primary elevators. Officially weighed 2,917 railcars destined for the U.S. at primary elevators.
Collect, interpret and distribute railcar data and information, and generate reliable grain quantity data for use by the industry	The CGC’s grain receival and outward weighing programs provided essential quantity data used by the grain industry, railways, Canada Ports Clearance, and the CGC in managing grain inventories and for statistical publications.
Management of GIAS to provide accurate information of terminal and transfer grain inventory data http://grainscanada.gc.ca/prodser/gias/gias-e.htm	Verified the accuracy of terminal and transfer elevator transactions by balancing monthly and annual stocks in store with licensees. Continued to provide overall stock positions to terminal and transfer licensees to support inventory control for the efficient marketing of Canadian grain. Processed over 8,504 requests to officially change information on an unloaded car.
Manage a complaint resolution process for quantity of export grain cargoes to maintain ongoing customer satisfaction	Logged and investigated 11 weight-related export cargo complaints at the customer’s request. Upon thorough review and analysis of the information documented at the time of loading, the CGC’s Chief of Weighing concluded that the original statement of quantity for all the shipments was correct. Provided essential information regarding the condition of railcars involved in weight related concerns with grain shipments to the U.S. and Mexico. This information was used to conclude investigations of export grain shipments by rail.
Manage a Dispute Resolution System (DRS) to assist grain producers and the grain industry in recovering for grain lost during transport by railcar or during the discharge process	Conducted 880 weight-related investigations on railcars. 825 railcars had weights officially apportioned due to the mixing of grain from two or more railcars in a common grain reception area as the cars were unloaded. Due to incidents around unrecovered spills, 68 cars required their origin weight to be verified and assigned as the official unload weight. Completed 4,487 exception reports for railcars that arrived at unloading facilities with low or empty compartments.
Conduct official weigh-overs of all stocks in store at licensed terminal and transfer elevators at prescribed intervals	Conducted 7 official weigh-overs. The results were deemed acceptable based on the permissible tolerances identified in the Canada Grain Regulations (CGR).

2. Provide technical support of the quantity assurance system.

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$989	$1 012	$1 061

In order to maintain relevancy and to address constantly changing industry demands, the CGC provides ongoing technical support for the quantity assurance system.

The expected result of this key program is to assist clients in accurate reporting of quantity information, through technological advancements, in order to maintain and increase the marketability of Canadian grain. Providing technical support of the quantity assurance system supports departmental Priority #1 and contributes to Priority #2.

To measure its success in delivering this key program and achieving the expected results, the CGC used the following tools:

Tracking the use of the GIAS and the number of adjustments to grain inventories
Tracking scale complaints attributed to CGC approved weighing systems and industry adherence to CGC proposed weighing system improvements
Consistently monitoring the use, by all interested parties, of CGC-generated data such as track lists and railcar exception reports, certified weighing systems reports, and official weight statements

The following ongoing activities and programs are necessary components of providing technical support of the quantity assurance system. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2005-2006 Related Activities	2005-2006 Results
Monitor the weighing system inspection program and grain accounting services to maintain an effective Quality Management System as per ISO 9001:2000 Standards http://grainscanada.gc.ca/newsroom/news_releases/2004/2004-03-11-e.htm	Continued to monitor and enhance the effective delivery of scale inspection and grain accounting services following the QMS re-certification of Industry Services functions in December 2003. Submitted, through the October 2006 external and internal maintenance audits, IRs relating to the QMS weighing systems inspection and the Registration and Cancellation procedures.
Maintain a regular weighing systems inspection program to verify the accuracy and reliability of terminal and transfer elevator weighing equipment	CGC Weighing Systems Inspectors conducted 566 weighing system device inspections and in 217 instances, the device under inspection required an adjustment or servicing. Of the 217 inspections, 98 (45.2%) were found to be operating with measurement errors of 0.10% or greater.
Generate, collect and distribute grain quantity data and information to meet specific industry and buyer needs http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Information/stats-e.htm	Provided official weighing data (generated by CGC-monitored weighing devices and systems) that assisted the grain industry in efficiently marketing Canadian grain and in making informed decisions on inventories and logistics. Provided elevator operators with data such as unload and shipment GIAS/MRS records and weigh-over records that contributed to the effectiveness of grain handling facilities and the Canadian grain handling system.
Provide technical advice to meet specific industry and buyer needs	Provided timely weighing system inspection data for all inward (880) and 11 outward quantity investigations to determine possible impacts of weighing system accuracy on shipment quantity. Shared technical information with licensees as required.

Strategic Outcome 3: Research and development on grain quality that enhances the marketability of Canadian grain.

Program Activity: Conduct research to understand and measure grain quality

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$9 171	$9 355	$9 582

**Human Resources**
Planned	Authorities	Actual
85	85	90

The CGA requires the CGC to undertake, sponsor and promote research related to grains. The CGC conducts research directly related to supporting the GQAS that permits the effective marketing of Canadian grain in the interests of producers. The GRL researches new methods for quality, new measurement factors to determine quality, end-use applications of Canadian grain, quality of new breeders’ varieties, and carries out the annual Harvest Survey. The GRL, through its research, supports the continual improvement of the GQAS.

There are major challenges confronting the CGC’s research activities and the GQAS due to the changing needs of the Canadian grain industry. There continues to be a shift in the type of crops grown and their end-uses, increased demand for variety identification by objective non-visual methods, and concerns with GM crops. Research focus has shifted to address these issues in pulses, new types of oilseeds, variety identification, and GM crops. Research related to traditional crops, such as wheat, barley, canola and flax, is still essential, as these crops make up a significant percentage of the domestic and export markets. There is increasing emphasis on end-use functionality, especially new end-uses in the domestic industry. Grain is increasingly being sold based on specifications requiring objective non-visual testing of quality or safety factors and the provision of grain quality and safety assurances.

This program activity directly supports departmental Priority #1 as undertaking, sponsoring and promoting grain related research upholds the mandate of the CGC and facilitates effective marketing of Canadian grain. In addition, ongoing research of new methods and measurement factors to determine quality, end-use applications of Canadian grain, and quality of new breeders’ varieties supports improvement of the Canadian GQAS and departmental Priority #2. Addressing departmental Priority #4 is also critical in order for the CGC to fulfill its statutory mandate and continue ongoing research focused on understanding and measuring grain quality.

The expected results of this program activity are: adaptation of new objective methods for quality assessment and grain safety assurance; adoption and publication of new methods by current standard setting organizations; and provision of accurate quality assessment tools for new breeder lines. The following related key programs and services provide details on how the CGC was successful during the 2006-2007 reporting period in meeting the expected outcomes and priorities associated with conducting research to understand and measure grain quality.

Key Program or Service

1. Research methods to measure grain quality

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$4 127	$4 210	$4 312

Non-visual methods for the assessment of grain quality are required in order to maximize the return on investment to each segment of the Canadian grain handling system. New internationally accepted methods are necessary to capture and maintain the inherent value through all phases of the marketing system from producer to end-user.

The expected result of this key program is the development of internationally recognized methods for quality evaluation of all grains and oilseeds in collaboration with other national and international laboratories. Based on this expected result, researching methods to measure grain quality supports departmental Priority #2.

To measure its success in developing research methods that support the GQAS, the CGC monitored:

The number of objective testing methods adapted into the CGC’s grading and inspection system
Industry integration of objective testing methods into segmentation and/or marketing systems
The quality and number of peer reviewed research papers published
Grain industry response (domestic and international) to the research, scientific and technical support provided by the CGC
Customer satisfaction with end-use quality by way of client feedback during foreign missions or by client visits
End-user response to the quality assessment of new varieties and harvest survey information
Technology transfer to private sector users, other government agencies, universities and international organizations

The following ongoing activities are integral components of researching methods to measure grain quality. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Develop new and improved methods for evaluating and measuring end-use quality factors for all grains (e.g. Near Infra Red (NIR), digital imaging, rapid viscosity analysis (RVA), and pulse cooking quality) to meet international and domestic marketing requirements http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/methods_tests-e.htm	Validated an objective imaging method developed in collaboration with the research centre in Sicily, Italy for determining spaghetti colour and speckiness. Continued to validate an objective imaging method for measuring lentil seed curvature and surface wrinkles to characterize seed morphology. Developed a method for measuring firmness of cooked pea, pea bean and chickpeas. Compared objective methods for determining barley kernel size and colour with end-use malt quality. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/pubs/research/edney_m/predict_quality/abstract-e.htm Developed preliminary calibrations using NIR to predict starch content and seed weight of peas and lentils.
Provide third party unbiased evaluation of quality characteristics of breeders’ new varieties as part of the registration process	Analyzed 150 samples from the 2006 wheat breeder lines for quality. Malted and analysed the quality of 160 samples of barley plant breeder lines as part of the variety registration process. Tested the 2006 crop year canola public co-op samples for oil, protein, glucosinolates, chlorophyll and complete fatty acid composition.
Research the suitability of Canadian grain varieties for various domestic and international end-uses to increase the marketability of Canadian grain in the interests of producers	Evaluated plant breeder lines to determine those that function the most effectively in various food products. Initiated research on evaluating food grade soybean quality. Investigated the influence of environment and genotypes on quality factors relevant to international markets. Evaluated harvest survey variety composite samples of flaxseed, canola, and mustard crops for the Flax Growers Workshop, Canola Industry Meeting, and the Mustard Association. Developed optimized hull-less barley roller milling procedure to maximize the yield and the concentration of fibre and verified its potential as a functional food ingredient in wheat-based products. In collaboration with Pulse Canada, initiated a project to study the effect of variety, cooking, and splitting on nutrients and anti-nutrients in Canadian peas and lentils.
Develop internationally accepted methods for evaluation of grains, oilseeds and pulse quality.	Developed a method for determining water absorption of pulses that was accepted by AACC International (previously known as the American Association of Cereal Chemists). Active member of ISO TC34SC 2 (Oleaginous seeds and fruits) and ISO TC34SC11 (Animal and vegetable fats and oils) sub-committees, and Chair of the AOCS Seed and Meal Sub-committees. The Oilseeds research program is organizing several round-robin studies for ISO and AOCS (American Oil Chemists’ Society) standard methods. Developed a method for determining moisture content in pulses that was accepted by ISO. The method is at Draft International Standard (DIS) stage. Further developed NoodleScan �, an imaging system developed for measuring noodle speckiness and colour for a ring test evaluation. Collaborated with the University of Manitoba on an NSERC (Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council) project focused on the effect of environmental factors on the end-quality of CWRS, CWAD, CWHWS, and CPSW.
Expand research on computer-assisted image enhancement and measurement to assess grain quality and develop rapid accurate tests to measure visual quality factors.	Acquired a hyper-spectral camera system that enabled spectral imaging from 400 nm to 1000 nm. Developed a preliminary automated detection system for mildew damage in wheat and green seed in barley.
Assess the use of objective tests to increase efficiency, reduce costs and enhance the testing capabilities of the CGC.	Developed an enzyme assay to improve the testing efficiency and increase productivity for the measurement of peroxidase activity. Developed an enzyme assay which significantly reduces the time required to assess polyphenol oxidase enzyme activity for plant breeder screening.

2. Research new quality factors

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$4 127	$4 210	$4 312

In order to remain competitive in the international marketplace, it is imperative that future grain quality attributes be anticipated and captured. As such, research that supports emerging issues in the GQAS is crucial to all segments of the Canadian grain industry.

The expected result of this key program is to develop new methodologies for identifying variety compositions and to enable variety specific marketing in order to meet changing producer, industry, and customer demands for specific end-use quality. Based on this expected result and the contributing programs and initiatives, researching new quality factors supports departmental Priority #2.

To measure its success in researching emerging quality factors to support the grain quality assurance system, the CGC tracked:

The application of newly developed objective measures of quality into the CGC’s grading and inspection system
Industry integration of objective testing methods into segmentation and/or marketing systems
Technology transfer to private sector users, other government agencies, universities and international organizations
Grain industry response (domestic and international) to the research, scientific and technical support provided by the CGC
The quality and number of peer reviewed research papers published

The following ongoing activities are integral components of conducting research that supports emerging issues in the GQAS. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Continue collaborative and jointly funded research efforts (nationally and internationally) to develop measures for assessing grain quality	Collaborated with AAFC and the University of Saskatchewan Crop Development Centre to identify quantitative trait loci for quality traits in durum wheat. Continued the development of improved and standardized durum wheat spaghetti quality testing procedures as part of a collaborative research study with the Tamworth Centre for Crop Improvement (Australia). Continued collaboration on lentil characterization and spaghetti measurement with scientists at Granicoltura Caltagirone (Italy). Developed a proficiency testing program for analytical parameters used by flax breeders in Canada and the U.S. Developed and managed a proficiency testing program for the analytical parameters required for canola variety recommendation
Research of relevant factors and development of methods to provide grain safety assurances on new quality factors for domestic and international markets	Developed and implemented a sensitive DNA-based protocol for detecting and identifying selected bacterial pathogens in grain exports. Identified changes in the Fusarium graminearum population in Canada highlighted by the rapid displacement of less toxigenic chemotypes with more toxigenic ones. Developed and validated a new analytical procedure for testing mercury in cereals, oilseeds, and pulses for grain safety assurance cargo monitoring. Initiated a collaborative project with AAFC to study cadmium and baseline levels of boron, aluminium, nickel, and mercury uptake in Canadian soybeans. Completed the first stage of this project.
Validate research to address current major grain quality issues in order to improve quality evaluation of grains (e.g., sprout damage in wheat, chlorophyll in canola, dehulling characteristics in lentils, germination energy in barley, food use of flax, and noodle quality)	Expanded the imaging system developed to detect HVK kernels in durum wheat to detect difficult to assess weathered kernels. Carried out a collaborative industry project to determine the feasibility of objectively measuring sprout damage in wheat. Conducted research to identify possible processing problems and to establish grade tolerances for ruptured kernels in wheat. Initiated a research project on the study of the effect of staining and wrinkling of red lentils on dehulling quality.
Research of wheat and barley DNA and protein fingerprinting methods to develop tests for identifying and quantifying varieties of grains in shipments in order to develop the capacity for identifying multiple variety composition and enable segregation of variety specific shipments	Completed development and validation of a quantitative, DNA-based method to estimate variety composition of a ground sample of two-row barley. Developed the variety database for a new multiplexed marker set to improve microsatellite-based DNA identification of wheat varieties. Updated DNA fingerprint databases to include recently registered barley and western Canadian wheat varieties. The database for wheat was also expanded to include an additional 30 eastern Canadian wheat varieties and 18 U.S. wheat varieties.
Develop methods for identifying and quantifying GM grains and oilseeds to enable quantification of GM status of grain and meet the needs of the Biosafety Protocol	Established an event-specific real-time PCR assay for the detection and quantification of the GT73 GM canola event. Started verification of real-time PCR assay for quantification of Ms8 and Rf3 GM canola events. Investigated the use of qualitative multiplex PCR assay for the detection of four different GM canola events in spiked wheat and barley ground samples. Participated in an international collaborative study organized by AACC International on a quantitative detection method for maize GM event T25 in maize seed bulk samples. Initiated a new project to determine the accuracy of GM composition analysis by PCR of canola cargo shipments which contain a distribution of different canola events. Research in the reporting period focused primarily on canola and corn as mixtures of these GM crops within other grain shipments had the most potential for commercial impact.
Identify specific areas of interest (as part of the strategic plan of scientific research within the portfolio) by establishing working groups on science infrastructure, human resources, longer-term science vision, GM issues, and disposal for animal and plant health emergencies	Continued working with the CFIA and AAFC (AP Portfolio Working Group) on developing integrated government/industry approaches to address AP issues of GM events in commercial grains approved in Canada, but not necessarily in its export markets. Prepared position papers with AAFC and CFIA on the acquisition and validation of GM grain detection technology for Canadian grains with emphasis on AP. Joined an interdepartmental working group (CFIA, Environment Canada, Industry Canada, AAFC, and Health Canada) to provide input on the development of policies and regulations for Plant Molecular Farming. Member of Canada Grains Council Biosafety Grain Trade Committee and provided input on biotechnology issues impacting the grains industry. Participated in China-Canada Agricultural Biotechnology Working Group to review, discuss and resolve bilateral issues related to agricultural products of biotechnology. Initiated year one of a multiyear collaborative project with AAFC (Matching Investment Initiative) to investigate seed coat colour and stability in Canadian hard wheat. Began studies in collaboration with AAFC (Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre) to determine quality trait loci responsible for sprout damage in durum wheat. Participated on the National Forum on Seed as an ex-officio member providing advice and support to foreign members on issues including AP, seed program modernization (variety or contract registration), and PNTs.

3. Research new grain standards

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$917	$935	$958

Continually evolving uses of grain requires that the CGC have the ability to anticipate, identify, and measure new grain specifications in order to meet changing industry needs.

The expected result of this key program is to develop objective testing protocols and specifications to support the Canadian grading system and facilitate the marketing and end-use diversification of Canadian grains. Given this expected result, researching new grain standards supports departmental Priorities #1 and #2.

To measure its success in ensuring that this key program is on track the CGC monitors:

The application of newly developed objective measures of quality into the CGC’s grading and inspection system
Customer satisfaction with end-use quality as measured by client feedback during foreign missions or by client visits
Value chain response to the quality assessment of new varieties and harvest survey information
The quality and number of peer reviewed research papers published

The following ongoing activities are integral components that contribute to the evolution of grain standards to meet changing industry needs. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Develop specifications and measurement protocols to support new standards to assist in diversification of end-uses of Canadian grains	Evaluated RVA testing protocols in to assess the feasibility of meeting grain industry requirements for a rapid objective test to predict sprout damage. Investigated the impact of HVK levels on quality specifications in both CWRS and CWHWS and recommended new specifications. Completed a project and provided a report to members of the Eastern Standards Committee examining potential changes in the assessment of mildew standards in soft red winter wheat.
Increase the amount of objective testing (e.g., digital image analysis, NIR, oil composition) in order to replace subjective quality assessment factors with numerical tolerances	Enhanced imaging system capabilities through the addition of hyper-spectral wavelengths. Purchased new imaging equipment to address a variety of currently subjective evaluations in Canadian crop grading.
Develop testing protocols to support the segregation of grains with new end-use traits for non-food uses	Continued to develop variety identification technology to allow the identification and possible segregation of grain for industrial end-uses, including ethanol production. Continued to develop NIR technologies that can segregate and identify IP and specialty trait oilseed crops by their characteristic fatty acids or crop specific constituents.

Strategic Outcome 4: Producers’ rights are supported to ensure fair treatment within the grain handling system.

Program Activity: Protect producers’ rights

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$2 208	$2 339	$3 740

**Human Resources**
Planned	Authorities	Actual
21	21	35

The CGC is an impartial third party that, in the interests of producers, establishes and maintains standards of quality for Canadian grain and regulates grain handling in Canada to ensure a dependable commodity for domestic and export markets. The CGC is mandated to serve producer interests by upholding the CGA and as a result, has implemented a number of programs and safeguards. These include the licensing and security program, producer liaison measures, producer car procedures, and a quality appeal system.

This program activity directly supports departmental Priorities #1 and #3 (Licensing Compliance), as the CGC is mandated to ensure the fair treatment of producers within the grain handling system. Addressing Priority #4 is also important to maintain producer satisfaction with the delivery of various procedures and systems related to their protection.

The overall expected result of this program activity is increased producer satisfaction with the grain handling system. The CGC continually strives to improve on the programs and activities that directly contribute to the CGC’s mandate of ensuring fair treatment of producers within the grain handling system. The following related key programs and services provide details on how the CGC was successful in meeting the expected outcomes and priorities associated with protecting producers’ rights during the 2006-2007 reporting period.

Key Program or Service

1. Administer the licensing and financial security system

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$1 056	$1 119	$1 360

The CGC licenses and regulates primary, process, terminal and transfer elevators as well as grain dealers. Licensed elevators and dealers are required to post security to cover their liabilities to producers in the event of a company default. This regulatory activity contributes to the fair treatment of western Canadian producers.

In May 2005, the CGC provided notice of its intention to require compliance to the licensing provisions of the CGA to enhance producer protection and strengthen the GQAS. An announcement was made that effective August 1, 2006 all elevators and grain dealers, as defined by the CGA would be either licensed and secured, or exempted, or subject to criminal prosecution. During the reporting period, the CGC continued to broaden the licensee base at the producer delivery level and increased licensing, audit and compliance operational unit resources to address the increase in the number of licensees. To facilitate licensing compliance, the CGC continued efforts toward reducing the costs and administrative requirements of licensees.

The expected result of this key program is to decrease the level of CGC licensing non-compliance, increase the number of new grain dealers and operators that are licensed, and mitigate financial risk to producers. This key program directly supports departmental Priorities #1 and #3.

To measure the success of its efforts in administering the licensing and financial security system, the CGC used the following methods and processes:

Evaluation of producer claims under the licensing and security program. In the event of financial failure of a licensed elevator or grain dealer, the CGC tracks producer reimbursement from posted security
Tracking the reduction in the number of unlicensed grain dealers and elevators operating in western Canada

The following ongoing activities are integral components of an effective licensing and financial security program. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
License eligible elevators and grain dealers http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Regulatory/licensees/licensees-e.htm	Issued licences for 336 primary elevators, 37 process elevators, 16 terminal elevators, 13 transfer elevators, and 95 grain dealers as of March 31, 2007. Since the inception of the Licensing Compliance Initiative, sent approximately 220 Mode of Operation packages to potential licensees to determine if licensing was required. Based on the resulting company submissions, determined that approximately 103 unlicensed companies required licensing under the CGA. To date, 47 new companies have become licensed. Held discussions with unlicensed companies to initiate the licensing process.
Obtain security to protect producers in case of default by a licensee in order that producers receive compensation http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Regulatory/licensees/responsibilities-e.htm	Continued to review licensee security requirements and adjusted the security requirements, as required, on the basis of in-store grain liabilities and posted security.
Conduct audits of licensees’ liabilities to producers to monitor compliance with the Canada Grain Act http://grainscanada.gc.ca/regulatory/licensees/crops-e.htm	Audited 19 licensees (CGC and Audit Services Canada) to ensure appropriate security coverage. Where security was deemed inadequate, the amount of security required was increased. Completed visits to 17 new licensees and 1 visit to a potential licensee.
Develop strategies to facilitate a licensing and reporting process that increases the efficiency of administrative/reporting mechanisms	Continued to review and update the forms and documents required by licensees in order to streamline the licensing process and requirements. Assisted prospective licensees with completing documentation and setting up the compulsory security threshold.

2. Manage the allocation of railcars for individual producer requests

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$164	$174	$175

The CGC allocates producer cars for producers and producer groups that wish to ship their own grain. The CGC continued to develop and implement strategies to address producer car issues, including the increasing demand from producers for railcar allocations. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/prodser/producercars/information/prodcars-e.htm

The expected results of this key program are, pursuant to the CGA and Canada Grain Regulations, to provide and make available an alternate grain delivery mechanism and respond to producer car allocation challenges. Managing the allocation of railcars for individual requests contributes to departmental Priority #1.

The CGC used the following methods and processes to measure its success in managing the allocation of railcars for individual producer requests:

Tracking the number of producer car applications received
Monitoring producer concerns with accessing producer cars by tracking the percentage of cars allocated versus the eligible applications received

The following ongoing activities are integral components of the administration of producer car delivery options. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Allocate producer cars	Received and processed applications from producers for 15,473 producer cars. For all requests, acknowledged the producer car application by mailing a notice of receipt of the application by the end of the next working day.
Address producer car issues	Continued to work with the CWB and the railways (CP and CN) to address ongoing producer car issues. Made available information on the producer car program on the CGC web-site and also distributed this to producers during agricultural fairs and exhibitions.

3. Fair treatment of producers by grain companies and dealers

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$833	$882	$2 044

To safeguard fair and equitable grain transactions for producers, the CGC has set up an information and compliance network. Inspection, weighing, and arbitration services are essential to the efficient and fair operation of grain markets for producers and the grain industry. Grades allow buyers to identify end-use characteristics without the need for end-use tests or direct examination of individual grain lots. This helps to ensure that producers are properly compensated for the quality and quantity of grain delivered and shipped.

The expected result of this key service is to successfully resolve complaints and facilitate settlements acceptable to those parties involved, while improving the ability of producers to manage their business risks. Based on this expected result, fair treatment of producers by grain companies and dealers directly supports both departmental Priority #1 and #3.

The CGC uses the following methods and processes to measure the success of its efforts in facilitating fair treatment of producers by grain companies and dealers:

Tracking producer inquiries and complaints on unfair treatment by grain companies. Feedback, complaints and requests for information are received through: direct contact with Assistant Commissioners and CGC staff at Prairie service centres or Head Office; or the CGC 1-800 line
Conducting periodic surveys of producers and producer groups to gain a producer perspective on the CGC, CGC services, or industry trends. Surveys provide the CGC with an understanding of producer requirements and expectations, benchmarks for setting service standards, and the impact of CGC services at the producer level
Tracking the number of producer requests for grain sample analysis (e.g., “inspector’s grade and dockage”). Satisfaction by producers in CGC-facilitated resolution of disputes involving grain transactions is measured by direct confirmation (part of the process) and by absence of recurrence

The following ongoing activities and services are integral components of safeguarding fair treatment of producers by grain companies and dealers. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities

2006-2007 Results

Mediate and/or arbitrate producer complaints concerning transactions with grain companies to facilitate negotiated settlements acceptable to both parties

The Assistant Commissioners in western Canada responded to many producer inquires regarding failure to pay or late payment, grade or dockage disputes, producer cars, shrinkage deductions and elevator charges. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Whoare/a-commissioners-e.htm
Received 1,710 producer inquiries on the toll free information line and 46 producer complaints. Licensing, Auditing and Compliance staff (Compliance Officers) addressed numerous other complaints in the course of their duties.

Re-inspection of samples on producer request and investigation of quality complaints in order to mediate and resolve issues with grain transactions

Continued to inform producers regarding their right to a binding quality determination by the CGC if they, or the person delivering the grain, disagrees with the grade or dockage received at a licensed primary elevator.
Distributed information packets on “subject to inspector’s grade and dockage” at agricultural fairs, producer meetings, and exhibitions and continued to promote this service through prairie service centres and the CGC website: http://www.grainscanada.gc.ca/Prodser/quality_insp/subject_to-e.htm

Producers submitted 292 samples to the CGC for quality determination under “subject to inspector’s grade and dockage”.

Number of Requests for Subject to Inspectors Grade and Dockage
Fiscal Year	Requests
2002-03	368
2003-04	348
2004-05	419
2005-06	351
2006-07	292

Producers requested 1,224 re-inspections on producer shipped railcars.

Review of regulations to amend or eliminate those that are no longer relevant, enforceable, or contributing to the effective operation of the Canadian grain industry

Amended the CGR effective September 21, 2006 to improve readability, clarity, ease of use, consistency of language, and to reflect current procedures. In addition, Section 15 of the CGR was amended to clarify the CGC’s licensing exemptions for elevators and grain dealers. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Regulatory/Regulations/cgregs-e.asp
Reviewed the CGR to determine if amendments were required for implementation effective August 1, 2007.

Analyse licensee weigh-over/audit data and conduct investigations when appropriate http://grainscanada.gc.ca/forms/licencerep/info_wei-e.htm

Continued to provide the Assistant Commissioners with detailed weigh-over reports identifying reporting delinquencies and anomalies for monitoring and investigative purposes.

4. Provision of grain quality information to producers

**Financial Resources ($ thousands)**
Planned Spending	Authorities	Actual Spending
$155	$164	$161

The CGC continually collects and updates grain quality data and grain handling information and makes it available to producers and other interested parties. Effective August 1, 2006 the CGC eliminated its fees for statistical publications. Publications that were previously available for a fee or through subscriptions are now available at no charge on the CGC website. Elimination of the fees is consistent with policies regarding fees followed by other government departments such as Statistics Canada. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/newsroom/news_releases/2006/2006-08-04-e.htm

The expected result of this key service is the provision of accurate and relevant technical and statistical information to support producer sales and marketing decisions. As such, this key service supports departmental Priority #1.

In order to measure the success of its efforts in providing grain quality information to producers, the CGC used the following methods and processes:

Tracking visits to the CGC website and tracking requests for grain quality data and grain handling information
Tracking employee time and expenses at agricultural trade shows
Conducting periodic surveys of producers and producer groups to gain a producer perspective on the CGC, CGC services, or industry trends. Surveys provide the CGC with an understanding of producer requirements and expectations, benchmarks for setting service standards, and the impact of CGC services at the producer level

The following ongoing activities are integral components of the provision of grain quality information to producers. Achievements during the 2006-2007 reporting period are provided to illustrate the CGC’s success in meeting the expected results of this key program:

2006-2007 Related Activities	2006-2007 Results
Maintain and disseminate grain quality assessment and technical information, (e.g. drying, sampling, harvest survey, etc.)	Reinforced data integrity of grain quantity, quality, and handling information captured by CGC information systems, and made general information available to internal and external parties as required. Provided producers with support related to mathematical calculations and metric conversions pertaining to grain quality. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/crop_qual-e.htm http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Quality/exports-e.htm http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Pubs/FactsFarm/facts-titles-e.htm
Publish statistical reports on grain stocks and handling within the licensed elevator system	Continued to compile, verify and make available grain statistics reflecting the licensed handling system in weekly, monthly and annual publications. Provided significant content for Statistics Canada and Canada Grains Council publications. http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Pubs/GrainStats/gsw-e.htm http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Pubs/GrainDeliveries/deliveries-e.htm http://grainscanada.gc.ca/Pubs/ExportsYearly/exportsyear-e.htm Provided statistics to other CGC employees as per data requests.
Provide extension support for producers on statistics related topics (e.g. metric conversions, calculations, test/bushel weight determinations)	Provided extension support to producers with respect to test-weight and metric conversions and other information pertaining to statistics.

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Section II - Analysis of Program Activities by Strategic Outcome

Analysis by Program Activity

Strategic Outcome 1: A grain quality assurance system that addresses the changing requirements of domestic and international grain markets.

Program Activity: Deliver inspection and testing services

Key Program or Service:

Strategic Outcome 2: A grain quantity assurance system that addresses the changing needs of the grain industry.

Program Activity: Deliver weighing services

Key Program or Service

Strategic Outcome 3: Research and development on grain quality that enhances the marketability of Canadian grain.

Program Activity: Conduct research to understand and measure grain quality

Key Program or Service

Strategic Outcome 4: Producers’ rights are supported to ensure fair treatment within the grain handling system.

Program Activity: Protect producers’ rights

Key Program or Service