Following months of uncertainty, Transport Canada has reached a compromise on anhydrous ammonia tanks for spring seeding. They get to roll on.
The department will allow Fertilizer Canada and the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers to operate the anhydrous ammonia nurse tank fleet this spring.
The original ruling by Transport Canada would have required approximately 80 percent of the fleet to undergo hydrostatic testing before they would be allowed to operate this spring. The new agreement, called YH 0651, pushes that hydro test back to June 30, by which time tank owners should have time to perform the tests.
Read Also
Lethbridge Polytechnic receives major donation
Multimillion-dollar donation by Hranac family aids Lethbridge Polytechnic’s research in integrated food production systems, irrigation science and post-harvest technology in Alberta
“Fertilizer Canada and the Canadian Association of Agri-Retailers have obtained temporary certificates issued by Transport Canada that provide additional time to complete hydrostatic testing. The temporary certificate is available on our website,” Giulia Brutesco, senior director of industry standards at Fertilizer Canada, said in an email April 2.
“Fertilizer Canada and CAAR are continuing to work closely with Transport Canada and agri-retailers to ensure that ammonia nurse tanks will be available to meet all farmer needs this spring.”
One of the concerns voiced by farmers was uncertainty over tanks they owned themselves. At first, it appeared they might have to meet stricter regulations.
“Farmers are encouraged to contact their agri-retailer to determine how best to manage their compliance needs of their own nurse tanks,” Brutesco said.
“There are several options available for farmer-owned nurse tanks this spring.”
A joint release by Fertilizer Canada and CAAR said farmers should be reassured that they will have access to nurse tanks for applying anhydrous ammonia this spring.
“A March 9 article by The Western Producer discusses the potential for a significant impact to the supply of ammonia for spring seeding due to regulatory changes,” it said.
“The regulations came into force on Jan. 12, affecting the frequency of hydrostatic testing and visual inspection of ammonia nurse and applicator tanks and field delivery units. This is a significant challenge that has been a top priority for Fertilizer Canada and CAAR. Canada’s fertilizer industry and agri-retailers are working closely with Transport Canada and farmer groups to ensure that ammonia nurse tanks will be available to meet all farmer needs this spring.”
