September 20, 2012

Australia's rapeseed forecast down on dry weather conditions

Yield projections in some Australian rapeseed growing regions are being downgraded due to dry weather conditions.

According to the latest crop report from the Australian Oilseed Federation, or AOF, total rapeseed production in the country is now forecast at 2.732 million tonnes. That's a 207,000-tonne drop from the previous estimate, and compares with production in 2011-12 of 3.185 million tonnes. ABARES, Australia's agriculture department, is currently forecasting rapeseed production at 2.761 million tonnes.

Northern portions of New South Wales were described as 'very dry' by the AOF, with rainfall over the next two weeks said to be critical for crop development. Dry air has also led to a number of frosts over the growing season, which cut into the yield potential as well.

Producers in Western Australia are also dealing with below average rainfall this season, according to the report. Although some key rapeseed growing areas did receive timely precipitation.

Rapeseed crops in South Australia are faring the best this year, although some fields did miss out on the recent beneficial rainfall, said the report. Most crops are at full flowering stage, and weather over the next month will determine yields at harvest time.

Victoria also saw sufficient rain to help the rapeseed crop over the winter in Australia, said the report. Large plantings could result in a near record crop for the region. However, the risk of both hot/dry weather, as well as severe frosts, remains a concern going forward.