By Sabeen Ahmad

American farmers pain may be Saskatchewan producers’ gain

Jul 18, 2012 | 7:07 AM

A miserable year for farmers in the U.S. could result in Saskatchewan farmers cashing in.

“As one producer just told me recently its shaping up to be like three years in one. You know, well above average prices, well above average production. When you put the two of them together it could be an excellent year for many producers,” said agricultural commentator Kevin Hursch.

The United States is seeing some its worst drought conditions in over half a century. A recent report says 55 percent of the country is in a moderate to extreme drought. The outlook for the all important American corn crop has dramatically declined, pushing up prices for other commodities and eventually for a range of consumer goods.

It's sending many Canadian prices higher as well, particularly canola and feed barley, according to Hursch. He says Saskatchewan in particular could benefit from this.

”Saskatchewan producers, many of them, are looking at the potential for a very good year. Not only are prices good for most all commodities, but in many areas of Saskatchewan, prospects are for a very good crop as well,” said Hursch.

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It’s a confluence of circumstances he says doesn't happen very often.

“Often times those things don't come together. Often times when you have a good crop the price is low or the prices shoot high but you're part of the production shortfall and you don't have a good crop to sell.”

Hursch is quick to acknowledge that not every farmer will “luck out”. There could be conditions beyond their control that could hinder their crops.but he says prospects are still very good.

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