A new report shows yields are above the five-year average in southern Alberta. (Photo: Orientaly | Dreamstime.com)

By David Opinko

Yields up in southern Alberta farms

Oct 3, 2024 | 12:47 PM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Although it has been a challenging season for farmers in the region due to weather, many have experienced higher-than-average yields.

That is according to the latest Alberta Crop Report, which looks at the conditions as of September 24, 2024.

It says 85.7 per cent of crops in the southern region have been combined, which is slightly higher than the five-year average and about eight per cent above the 10-year average.

That includes all dry peas, 95.7 per cent of barley and 94.8 per cent of oats.

The progress in harvesting comes despite recent rainfall that slowed their efforts down.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Adopt-A-Rink program still seeking volunteers

6h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner

Dec 06, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

CHAT News producer makes 'emotional' return to Medicine Hat's old arena

Dec 06, 2024

The report states that yields in southern Alberta are up 19 per cent compared to the five-year average.

“Estimates indicate that approximately 76 per cent of hard red spring wheat, 65 per cent of durum wheat, and 67 per cent of oats are grading in the top two grades,” reads a portion of the Alberta Crop Report. “Around 27 per cent of barley qualifies for Malt, while 36 per cent is grading as 1 C.W. For canola, 58 per cent is achieving a 1 Can., with 31 per cent grading as 2 Can.”

The full Alberta Crop Report can be found on the Government of Alberta website.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now

—

If you have a news tip, question or concern, please email Lethbridge.newsroom@Pattisonmedia.com.