September 17, 2009

Warm temperatures combined with mainly dry conditions have helped crops mature in Alberta and are allowing the harvest to progress, Alberta Agriculture and Rural Development said Wednesday (Sept 16).

 

Provincially, 17 percent of the 2009 crop is in the bin, compared to three percent two weeks ago and 35 percent at this time in most years. Also, 26 percent of the crop is in the swath, with 57 percent standing in the field, the department said in a crop update report for the week ended September 10.

 

Combining was the most advanced in the southern region at 32 percent complete, while the Peace Region lags behind with six percent combined. The delay in harvest, coupled with a lack of moisture in many areas, could reduce the seeded acreage for winter cereals this autumn, the report said.

 

Overall, average yields for major grains and oilseeds were estimated to be significantly below their 10-year averages. For most specialty crops, which are grown primarily in the southern region, average to above average yields are expected.

 

Quality grade estimates for major crops in the southern region are generally favourable, based on preliminary results of early samples, the report said. Elsewhere in the province, the majority of crops are still in the field, and weather conditions remain key with respect to quality.

 

In general, crop development remains behind normal, with multiple growth stages and weed infestations reported in many fields. As a result of this, more swathing and desiccation are taking place this autumn, compared to most years. Hailstorms and frost have caused crop damage in some local areas.

 

Harvest of second-cut hay is estimated at 55 percent complete on dryland and 85 percent under irrigation. Hay yields, with varying quality, were mostly below their 10-year averages.

 

To help secure forage supplies, some cereals and canola are being harvested for forage production, the report said. Some of these crops either tend to have poor yield potentials or were too far behind in development to reach maturity for grain harvest.

 

Straw baling was also reported in many areas.

 

Pasture conditions in the province were rated as 59 percent poor, 35 percent fair, and six percent good.

 

Grasshopper infestations remain a problem in some areas of the northeast, northwest and Peace Regions. Also, dry conditions remain largely unchanged in most areas of the province.