With the introduction of four hybrids to the CLEARFIELD canola family for the 2005 season, BASF is building even more strength into the production system’s promise of choice and performance for growers.

The hybrids — the latest addition to a lineup that already includes specialty and open-pollinated canola — brings the number of CLEARFIELD varieties to fourteen. More importantly, however, is the increased yield potential from a well-regarded production system.  “Grower focus is clearly on yield and these new CLEARFIELD hybrids deserve to be in the spotlight,” says Scott Chapman, CLEARFIELD business manager with BASF. “All four hybrids demonstrated excellent field performance in recent trials.”

Chapman also points out that the discussion about hybrids needs to be put into a broader context. “Every field is different and growers are in the best position to determine what’s right for each one,” he says. “So we need to offer a choice of high-performing varieties that include a range of desirable traits and that’s what we’re doing with CLEARFIELD canola.”

Three companies are carrying the new CLEARFIELD hybrids in 2005. Advanta Seeds and Saskatchewan Wheat Pool are each marketing one of the new hybrids, AV9618 and SP 442 CL respectively, while Pioneer Hi-Bred is  marketing two of the new hybrids – PHL 45H72 and PHL 46H70.

Like all other CLEARFIELD varieties, the hybrids are internationally recognized as non-GMO. The CLEARFIELD trait is conventionally bred into the plants, not genetically engineered, as is the case with other production systems.

Specialty canola is another way that the CLEARFIELD system offers choice to growers. Nexera brand canola, with its high oleic, low linolenic profile, will feature four CLEARFIELD open-pollinated varieties that are available under contract from Dow AgroSciences in 2005, offering a further marketing option to producers.

In addition to the availability of CLEARFIELD hybrids and specialty canola, six standard open-pollinated varieties provide yet another seeding option for Prairie growers in 2005.

“The CLEARFIELD system is all about performance, choice and control,” says Chapman of BASF. “With a range of varieties — including the four new hybrids for 2005 —  we’re striving to help growers get the performance they expect and the choice they need for their individual farm operations. Together, that adds up to control.”