By Alice McFarlane

SARM warns of drought impact on rural communities

Jul 20, 2023 | 11:23 AM

The Saskatchewan Association of Rural Municipalities (SARM) wants more to be done to address the drought crisis in the province.

In a news release, SARM said it’s concerned over the severe dry conditions plaguing agricultural regions of the province and there is an urgent need for immediate action to mitigate the devastating effects of the prolonged dry spell.

SARM President Ray Orb said the affected region, encompassing several municipalities and agricultural communities, has been experiencing below-average precipitation levels for an extended period.

“As of now, approximately twenty rural municipalities have notified SARM about declaring states of emergency for drought. With the impending weather forecast, it’s anticipated this number will continue to rise,” Orb said.

The drought conditions have resulted in depleted water supplies, parched soil, and substantial hardships for the farmers and ranchers who rely on adequate moisture for both crop production and livestock grazing.

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Orb urged all levels of government, industry stakeholders, and the public to unite in support of the affected communities and to extend a helping hand.

“At this crucial point, SARM encourages cooperation between the crop and livestock sectors wherever possible to ensure livestock have the feed they need to thrive,” he said.

According to Thursday’s Ministry of Agriculture weekly report, the drought conditions in the southwest and west-central regions did not improve with just trace amounts of moisture or localized thundershowers.

Provincial cropland topsoil moisture is 15 per cent adequate, 57 per cent short and 28 per cent very short. Hay and pastureland topsoil moisture is 12 per cent adequate, 50 per cent short and 38 per cent very short.

The dry conditions did allow haying to progress quickly this week although few producers expect to take a second cut this year. The warm weather also allowed crops to develop.

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alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @farmnewsNOW