On Wednesday, the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) launched a consultation on proposed changes to its user fees, and began a discussion about potential uses of surplus funds.

Grain producers, farm groups, licensed grain companies and industry associations are invited to provide their input. The Grain Commission is proposing to reduce user fees for most of its services.

The consultation closes on May 1, 2017.

The updated fees would take effect on April 1, 2018, after the current five-year user fee review cycle ends on March 31, 2018.

The Grain Commission is also asking for input on potential uses for surplus funds.

As a result of higher than expected grain volumes and lower than expected spending, the CGC reported an accumulated surplus of $95.9 million in the 2015 to 2016 fiscal year. As of September 30, 2016, the accumulated surplus had reached of $107.2 million.