According to the Farm Equipment Manufacturers Assn. and AgriMarketing magazine, the board of directors of the Far West Equipment Dealers Assn. has approved entering into merger talks with the Western Equipment Dealers Assn.

While the news has not been officially released to the public by either organization, it has been shared through several industry channels.

The success of any merger depends upon the outcome of members' votes, and details of the structure of the combined association continue to be discussed.

One source expects creation of a far west region in WEDA with an office and staff based in the region. The new association would have equal representation on its board from the two merged groups.

Both associations have said the merger is an opportunity to provide enhanced services, speak with a more unified voice, and exercise greater influence in dealer-manufacturer relations and other issues.

If approved, WEDA would represent equipment dealers in four Canadian provinces and 17 states in the western U.S.