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P.A. area farmers endure week of rain and hail

Jul 7, 2016 | 2:00 PM

The past week has not been kind for farmers in the northeast region after heavy rain and even hail fell in areas of the region.

Rainfall ranged from small amounts to 40 mm in the Alvena area. Other areas reported large amounts of rain include the Humboldt area (37 mm), the Prince Albert area (22 mm) and the Tisdale area (19 mm). The Arborfield area holds the regional record for greatest amount of precipitation since April 1 (163 mm).

Cropland topsoil moisture conditions are rated as six per cent surplus, 89 per cent adequate and nine per cent short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 89 per cent adequate and 11 per cent short.

The majority of crop damage this past week is due to strong winds and disease pressure. Many producers are applying fungicides to all crop types as disease pressure and humidity are high. There are reports of hail damage, although crops are expected to recover.

Fifteen per cent of the hay crop has been cut and 20 per cent has been baled or put into silage. Hay quality at this time is rated as nine per cent excellent and 91 per cent good. Pasture conditions are rated as 16 per cent excellent, 74 per cent good and 10 per cent fair.

In comparison, farmers in the Hafford and Shellbrook areas have 15 per cent of the hay crop cut, and seven per cent has been baled or put into silage.

Hay quality in the northwest region is rated as 75 per cent good and 25 per cent fair. Additional rain will be needed this week to help hay growth and to alleviate plant stress.

 

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