By Charles Lefebvre

More moisture needed in Alberta for crop growth: Alberta Agriculture

Jun 7, 2019 | 4:47 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Crop seeding is basically finished across Alberta, according to the most recent report released by the provincial government.

However, farmers are still in need of moisture to assist with crop growth.

According to the most recently released crop report on Friday, almost 100 per cent of crops in Alberta have been planted as of Tuesday.

But the amount of moisture remains a growing concern.

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“Last year was a dry year, and hopefully this year is not another one of those years,” said Mark Cutts, a crop specialist with Alberta Agriculture and Forestry.

According to the report, precipitation levels in parts of southwestern Alberta are at normal levels, however much of southeastern Alberta is at below average levels.

Cutts says precipitation is needed to help improve moisture levels in the soil, noting June is an important month in the growing season.

“This time of year, moisture is the big driver,” he said. “Plants are going to be putting in a lot of growth this month, and in order to do that, they need moisture.

“Areas that have received moisture are probably doing fine, but areas that haven’t received a lot of timely precipitation, they’ll certainly be looking for some over the next few weeks.”

Saskatchewan is dealing with similar issues with its crops.

According to their most recent crop report, while seeding is 99 per cent complete, strong winds and a lack of moisture are causing topsoil conditions to deteriorate, and growth of hay and pasture has slowed down.

“Significant rain is needed soon across the province to help with crop growth and emergence as well as with the establishment and growth of hay land and pastures,” the report reads.