At the same time, analysis from typical agri benchmark farm data indicates that other broad leaf crops that could replace rapeseed perform rather poorly in economic terms: Rapeseed yields need to drop by over 20% below 2016-18 average levels for the most likely competitor crop to be more profitable. A lower share of rapeseed in the rotation would therefore lead to reduced farm profits, although retaining rapeseed shares at historic levels is no longer an option for many farmers, as yield losses of that magnitude or more are being experienced.

Interestingly, agri benchmark data reveal that both in Canada as well as in Australia, the on-farm competitiveness of rapeseed is much poorer. Alternative crops would be more profitable than rapeseed if yields were to drop by 10% or more.

The panel at the IRC also explored policy measures to support rapeseed production. One option is to undertake a large-scale zoning trial, whereby rapeseed would be completely withdrawn for several years. Thereby, the effect of wider rotations and a tighter re-infection control could be assessed.

Furthermore, the panel suggested to broadly test the so-called “green corridors” concept, suggested by the Canola Council of Canada: Is it possible to support predator insects through the establishment of specific biotopes, where those beneficial insects can eat and breed?

Tom Arthey, project coordinator for agri benchmark, explained “the study provides a first step into understanding the shared challenges faced by European producers, and what the economic impact would be if rapeseed disappeared from our production systems. More collaborative work needs to be done to develop strategies to overcome the challenges. Whilst Europe is at the forefront of the issue, it was also clear from our Australian and Canadian partners that resistance issues were also a growing problem there too.”