Alberta’s latest crop report says many farmers across the province are preparing for an average harvest.
All regions continue to report crops in variable conditions as a result of hot and dry conditions through July, with the greatest concern being noted in areas with the lowest soil moisture reserves.
If the dry conditions continue, expectations are that the crop will use the remaining soil moisture to fill existing seeds rather than developing new seeds.
While parts of the North East, North West, and Peace regions received meaningful rainfall earlier in the month, the remainder of the province is hoping for additional rainfall to be confident that crops will yield as expected.
Most regions are currently expecting an average crop yield.
Provincially, 51 per cent of all crops are rated in good to excellent condition, in comparison to the 5-year average of 56 per cent and 10-year average of 59 per cent.
The South Region has the highest proportion of crops rated as good to excellent condition at 70 per cent, followed by the North East Region reporting at 58 per cent, the Peace at 54 per cent, the North West at 30 per cent, and the Central Region at 27 per cent.
Overall, the provincial condition of all crops has decreased by 23 per cent compared to the report on July 16th.