Since its inception in 2007, Leduc County's Agricultural Service Board (ASB) has reviewed the Leduc County Clubroot management policy on a yearly basis to reflect changes in farming practices, development of resistant seed varieties, etc. The most recent version of the policy, approved in January 2011, includes a code of practice allowing Leduc County Agricultural Services to work with producers to develop and implement clubroot management strategies rather than just focus on enforcement as was the practice with past policies and revisions.

"The changes to this policy should really help out producers who have been affected or may become affected by Clubroot," states Aaron Van Beers, Agricultural Foreman with Leduc County. "We acknowledge the continued efforts of producers thus far to manage the spread of Clubroot and these policy changes should help support canola producers in the County to ensure their viability. We want producers to know that we are here to help with their Clubroot management plans".

The policy still gives Leduc County the ability to use enforcement if necessary under Alberta's Agricultural Pests Act, but encourages producers to be proactive and responsible in their management practices and efforts with the support of Leduc County. "As with any crop, producers should be using rotations between types of crops," advises Van Beers. "Producers should also be conscious of potential infections and practice due diligence when cleaning their equipment. For example – if you are moving from field to field, clean your equipment before moving on to the next field."

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