Alberta soil moisture improving but still low

Alberta farmers face drought despite recent rains

According to the AFSC and Alberta Government Crop Reporting Survey for the week of June 17 to 25, the recent rainfall has brought some relief to Alberta's agriculture sector, especially in the Central and North East regions.  

However, the South continues to face drought stress. Crop conditions across the province are rated at 50 per cent good to excellent—below the 5- and 10-year averages of 71 and 70 per cent. 

Major crops like canola and dry peas are showing signs of progress. Canola in the south is mostly in the rosette stage, with some already flowering. Dry peas have reached mid-development stages. Despite these gains, overall ratings remain below historical levels. 

Spraying operations are ahead of the 5- and 10-year averages, with 66 per cent completed. Pest activity is low across the province, except for flea beetles in the South where 7 per cent of fields are above threshold levels. 

Pasture and hay growth remain a concern. Pasture conditions improved slightly to 41 per cent good to excellent, but tame hay ratings slipped to 38 per cent. The Northwest region leads in pasture growth, while the Peace and South regions report the most stress. Early hay cutting has already begun in the driest areas. 

Soil moisture conditions improved with recent rainfall. Surface moisture rated good to excellent rose to 37 per cent, while sub-surface levels reached 38 per cent. The Peace Region received the most rainfall, with 30–50 mm recorded. 

While some improvement is noted, continued precipitation will be essential for crops and pastures to recover fully in the coming weeks.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ianchrisgraham