A new Seed Variety Use Agreement Pilot Project initiated by the seed industry has drawn major concern from a group of prairie grower organizations.

Five groups, including Sask Wheat and the Manitoba Wheat and Barley Growers Association are taking issue with the project, announced this week.

Sask Wheat Chair Brett Halstead is concerned about higher royalties on seed for farmers, especially on seed developed through public programs.

He is also concerned that the proposed trailing royalties could inhibit the adoption of wheat midge tolerant varieties.

Halstead says the pilot program imposes the trailing royalty collection mechanism on farm-saved seed of selected crop varieties through a contract agreement.

He wants to see the results of a federal consultation process.