Category: Members Market Updates

Crop Progress Report — July 6, 2020

10/08/2020

ALBERTA

What farmers would like to see in Alberta is some dry weather with warm temperatures to permit the soil to dry out and advance crop development. No doubt that in the Southern and Central regions the conditions are more than ideal to replenish sub-soil and topsoil moisture reserves, while in the North West, North East and Peace regions they do not need any more moisture. These three northern tier regions require a combination of warmer temperatures and no rain events for the remainder of the month. The persistent rainfall is now becoming a nuisance and is creating problems as farmers attempt to finish post-emergence spraying. The Alberta barley crop is rated 80% good to excellent at this juncture of the crop year.

Southern Region: ( Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost )

This region received widespread rainfall the weekend of June 27/28th, dumping between 75mm and 175mm ( 3 to 7 inches ) of moisture. The Lethbridge/Foremost area received 75mm and the Vulcan area received up to 150 MM. The crops do not need more precipitation at this time, they have sufficient sub-soil moisture to carry them to harvest. Some of the barley fields have headed out and will be harvested in early August. The forecast is for warmer weather to enter the region which will prompt good crop development. The crop rating is at 85% good to excellent which is certainly well above the five year average of 63%, remembering well the last three years were drought years in this region. There is a great deal of cautious optimism at this time for good barley yields. The moisture level is rated at 85% good to excellent after the recent rains.

 

Date July 5
Variety – CDC Bow
Location – Southern Alberta

 

Central Region: ( Rimbey, Ardrie, Olds )

This region continues to get persistent rains and there is more moisture in the forecast for this week. Since the 24th of June, Red Deer has received 75mm ( 3 inches ) of precipitation.  At this time, further rainfalls are not needed, warm dry weather and no additional moisture is what farmers would greatly welcome. The re-occurring theme of low day time temperatures have been a constant throughout the growing season. Warmer temperatures would permit the soil to dry out and advance crop development. The forecast for the next week to ten days calls for daytime temperatures struggling to register 20 degrees Celsius and the strong possibility of more rain mid week.  Conditions within the Central region are considerably above historical norms and currently estimated at 95 per cent good or excellent compared to the five-year average of 63 per cent and 10-year average of 74 per cent. Surface soil moisture ratings remain above 90%  good or excellent, with one per cent rated excessive.

North East Region: (Smoky Lake, Vermilion, Camrose, Provost)

This region received another 55mm ( 2 inches + ) of additional rain this past week, all of which it did not require. The soil moisture rating is  97% good to excessive, with 6% of the ranking in the excessive category. This additional moisture makes it more challenging for farmers to get their spraying completed as many of the fields are not passable with equipment. Crop conditions within the region are currently estimated at 84 per cent good or excellent, above the five-year average of 72 per cent. What this region requires is no more precipitation and dry warm weather.  There is sufficient sub-soil moisture to carry the crop until mid August. The weather forecast calls for potential rain mid week and then sunny warmer conditions which is what is needed for good crop development.

North West Region: (Barrhead, Edmonton, Leduc, Drayton Valley, Athabasca)

This region is suffering from excessive moisture conditions. Another 45mm ( 1 3/4 inches ) of precipitation fell this pass week and the ten day forecast is for unsettled weather with more rain events. The majority of this region simply does require additional moisture, it needs warm, dry weather. All this rain has flooded and saturated many fields. This excessive moisture has current barley crop conditions estimated at 47 per cent good to excellent which is significantly below the five-year average of 64 per cent.  Top soil moisture is rated at 100% good to excessive with 50% of the rating being excessive which is somewhat of a rare occurrence. The moisture conditions make it challenging to spray fields as the soil cannot support the spraying equipment and aerial spraying will have to be the norm for many farms. The region is desperately in need of warm dry weather for the foreseeable future.

Peace River Region: ( Fairview, Grand Prairie )

This region is plagued with wet conditions. Grand Prairie received another 72mm of rain in the June 27th to July 2nd period. Farmers are falling behind in their spraying activity and the crop development is progressing slowly due to the fact that day time temperatures are unable to register above 20 degrees Celsius. The forecast for this week calls for light showers and temperatures that will struggle to reach 20 degrees Celsius which will be problematic for crop development and spraying activity will be limited. Crop conditions within the Peace region are currently estimated at 68 per cent good or excellent, which is comparable to the five-year average of 64 per cent. In a number of areas, producers are under pressure to make spraying progress given amount of dry days are limited. The region needs dry conditions and July heat to promote better crop conditions otherwise the crop will begin to go backward.

SASKATCHEWAN

The entire province received some moisture from the weekend rains of the 27th/28th of June and through the first week of July, especially the Southeast region which was dry and in need of moisture. The majority of the rain was welcomed, however in a few parts, like the Northeast of the province, they are satisfied with the rain events to date and would welcome a reprieve from any additional moisture until month end. Unfortunately with the thunderstorms there was hail that hit in parts of the Northeast region. The rains have improved the crop development and in general the crops are in good to excellent condition.

 

Date – June 25, 2020
Variety – AAC Connect
Location – Margo, Saskatchewan

 

Southwest Region: ( Assiniboia, Swift Current, Maple Creek )

The region received traces amounts up to 50mm ( 2 inches ) in the Assiniboia. There are still a few parts that would benefit from additional moisture. In general the crop is in good condition. The weather forecast is for warmer temperatures, in the mid 20 degrees Celsius  and the potential of rain activity later in the week. The Swift Current region received some moisture Sunday which will help promote crop development.

Northwest Region: ( North Battleford, Lloydminster )

In the last two weeks there was limited rainfall in the region, with North Battleford only registering 15mm ( 6/10 of a inch ) of moisture. Dry conditions throughout much of the region have benefited crop development. Warmer temperatures are moving into the region along with some potential precipitation which will improve the crop conditions. The barley crop is estimated to be at 80% of normal growth development at this time

West Central Region: ( Saskatoon, Kindersley, Biggar )

This region continues to benefit from good rain events as moisture conditions steadily improve. Since June 27th the rain accumulation has ranged from 27mm to 37mm ( 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches ) and the Saskatoon area received additional precipitation this pass Sunday. The rains and warm temperatures have improved crop development. Crop conditions for barley rate over 85% good to excellent. At this time of year, this is the best crop conditions this region has experienced in over five years. Warmer temperatures in the mid to high 20 degrees Celsius and the potential for another rain event this week should further benefit the crop.

Southeast Region: ( Regina, Weyburn, Moosomin )

This region was certainly in need of the timely rains that covered the region, just in time to salvage the crop. The moisture levels ranged from 25 mm ( 1 inch ) in Regina and Weyburn receiving 60mm ( 2 1/2 inches ) of rain since June 24th greatly improving the areas crop condition. The dry conditions were starting to push the crop backward.

The precipitation helped crop conditions in the region, but more rain will be required in the next week to ten days to maintain and advance crop development.  The 10 day forecast calls for warmer temperatures and the potential for showers mid week.

Northeast Region: ( Prince Albert, Tisdale, Melfort, Nipawin )

The region continues to get good rains and most farmers would appreciate dry warm weather to replace the rain events. There is sufficient sub-soil moisture to carry the crop through the month of July. Some parts of the region, such as Nipawin, have saturated fields due to the high volume of precipitation that they have received to date. Since the 24th of June, this area, has received in excess of 60mm ( 2 1/2/inches ) of additional moisture on what was a wet area. Farmers will be spraying this week and hope for warmer temperatures to enter the region. There was some hail that passed through a 50 mile strip in this region hail pounding some barley fields in Mefort, Star City, Tisdale, Carrot River, Ridgedale, Arborfield, Nipawin, Bjordale and Zenon Park areas causing variable degrees of damage, some fields were destroyed but many will come back.. Mainly warmer weather is forecast for the next week to ten days with the slight prospect for rain mid week. In general, the crop conditions are in good to excellent condition.

East Central Region: ( Yorton, Kamsack, Watrous)
This region has struggled getting any meaning rainfall throughout most of the growing season. The last rain event left trace amounts in some areas with Yorkton and Canora barley registering 10mm ( 4/10 on an inch ). Watrous received 25mm ( 1 inch ). There are a few pockets of the region that are getting timely rains, but for most parts the region needs rain and heat.  Lack of moisture, below normal seasonal temperatures and the windy conditions are drying out the fields and that is staling good crop development. This region is desperately in need of rains and soon. On an optimistic note, this weeks forecast is for warmer temperatures and a strong potential for rainfall mid week. A number of barley fields are in the flag to early head stage.

MANITOBA

The weekend of June 27/28th a weather system brought torrential rainfall to the Southwest region. Moisture levels ranging from 120mm to 200mm ( 5 to 8 inches ) in short time period. The area extended from Souris in the south, to Laurier in the north, out to Neepawa in the east, and Birtle to the west. Many fields were saturated with water running through fields and flooding roads. The city of Brandon and the surrounding area was completely deluged with water flooding homes and fields. It will take time to assess the water affected crops and to determine if and how they will recover. For the other regions that did not get pummeled by the rains they look very promising as they have benefitted from good moisture conditions and hot humid temperatures.

Southwest Region: ( Brandon, Virden, Boissevain ) 

Torrential rain storm flooded many of the fields, in this region. It will take time to assess the damage done to the crop. Some of the areas on outskirts of the devastated area, such as Wawanesa and Boissevain received a modest 25mm ( 1 inch ) of moisture and  the crops conditions are near ideal. The barley fields are variable from just getting to flag to heads emerging. These areas will need additional precipitation later this month.

Northwestern Region: ( Roblin, Swan River, Dauphin ) 

There was severe rainfall, in this region, with amounts varying from 40mm (  1 1/2 inches ) in Swan River, 80mm ( 3 1/5 inch ) in Roblin and up to 124 mm ( 5 inches ) at Alonsa. The rains caused pooling in low lying areas, in fields, and has left some acres saturated. Pesticide application has been some what challenging with the wet fields and farmers are trying to catch up. Temperatures the pass week were in the 30 degrees Celsius which helped to dry out some fields and promote crop growth. This week the forecast calls for temperatures in the mid 20 degrees Celsius range and the potential for additional moisture which is not what is needed now in this region.  Dry warmer conditions are what is needed to promote better crop development

Central Regional: ( Portage La Prairie, Red River Valley )

This region has experienced hot and humid conditions with temperatures over the 30 degree Celsius mark for the last week to ten days. These conditions have helped push along crop development. Rainfall for the period, June 30 to July 4th, was variable with the Winnipeg area receiving 20mm ( 4/5 of an inch ) meanwhile the Morden/Carman area received 40mm ( 1 1/2 inch ) and Morris had a high of 60 mm ( 2 1/2 inches ) of precipitation. Overall, the herbicide applications are near complete in the region and producers were preparing to begin spraying fungicides. Barley is in the joint stage while the early seeded fields are headed out. The barley crop is looking good for this time of year.

Crop Progress Report — June 22, 2020

Farmers have finished another spring seeding season. Now we are officially in summer and will concentrate on monitoring the barley crop growth and development. What the Prairies require going forward is warmer temperatures to propel crop growth. In the last two weeks, parts of the Prairies received additional precipitation and for most it was beneficial, however for some regions of Alberta it was excessive.

ALBERTA

A number of rain events benefited most crops, however the Northwest and Peace regions are too wet. The province needs some heat to move the crop forward. In general the barley crops are above average and do not require anymore precipitation until mid July. The moisture rating for the entire province is above 80% good to excellent and in some cases excessive.

Southern Region: ( Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost )

Most of the region received rain over the last two weeks which have been ideal to replenish soil moisture conditions. The forecast for the coming weeks will help crop growth as warm seasonal temperatures will enter the region. A reduction of wind events would be welcome as the harshness of the winds caused some crop damage as well as depleting top soil. Overall the barley crop is excellent mid way through the growing season. Moisture conditions are the best they have been in years with a rating of 80% good to excellent.

Central Region – ( Rimbey, Ardrie, Olds ) 

The barley crop is good to excellent, similar to the moisture levels which are rated 90% good to excellent. More rain events over the last two weeks drowned out some low spots in fields. Some fields are saturated and makes spraying difficult if not impossible. Aerial spraying is the norm for some farms. This region needs warm dry weather which will promote good crop development. The region has been plagued with much below day and night time temperatures which has slowed plant growth. Daily temperatures above 20 degrees Celsius since May 1st have been a rare occurrence.

North East Region-(Smoky Lake, Vermilion, Camrose, Provost)

Significant precipitation received in the last two weeks has resulted in “wet and soggy” conditions with some areas receiving up to five inches of rain. A few fields, in the western part of the region went unseeded due to the fact they were saturated. Cooler temperatures are slowing plant growth, but the forecast for this week and the remainder of June calls for warmer temperatures which will help promote better crop development. Overall the crop is looking good. The challenge for farmers has been spraying their crops, the combination of strong winds and soggy fields has pushed spraying activities behind. Aerial applicators are booked up in this region. Moisture rating for this region are 100% good to excessive.

North West Region- (Barrhead, Edmonton, Leduc, Drayton Valley, Athabasca)

This region has been pounded with heavy rains in the last two weeks, rainfall accumulations of up to seven inches covered parts of the region. The moisture rating is 100% good to excessive with 60% of the rating in the excessive category. Due to the extremely wet conditions some acres were mudded in and other acres did not get seeded as the fields were too saturated to support seeding equipment. The wet fields and strong winds will also affect the spraying operations for some who may not be able to spray their fields. Aerial applicators are booked to spray some of the wet, impassable fields. Overall the crop is struggling somewhat due to the excessive moisture conditions. Basically its too wet, there are drowned acres, there is irreversible damage which will led to less than optimal yields.  Heat and a drier forecast would benefit better crop development, however the forecast for the next two weeks is for continued below average seasonal summer temperatures with the daytime highs struggling to get over 20 degrees Celsius.

Peace River Region: ( Fairview, Grand Prairie )

Seeding has come to an end in this region which has endured excessive wet conditions this spring and for the last few years. More rain has fallen n the last week which has resulted in many fields being saturated and low spots drowned out. Reports indicate that 90 to 95% of the acres were seeded, however, many of the fields were mudded in, which does not promote good crop development. The actual seeded acre number will be closer to 75/80%. This region was late to commence seeding and finished planting well into mid June which places the crop behind normal development for this time of year. The late start and finish of the seeding season and the fact that is too wet in many areas will promote uneven germination and variable yields. What this region needs is no further rain until late July and warm summer time temperatures. Good hot weather would help push this crop forward. Warmer temperatures are in the forecast, but no major heat is called for in June. Spraying operations will be a challenge due to the fact most fields will not be able to support the equipment.

SASKATCHEWAN

Good rains fell over most of the province, these past two weeks, which have pushed the barley crop to be ranked good to excellent.  All regions benefited from rains, some regions could have used larger amounts of precipitation. The province would benefit from warmer temperatures. Crop development has been impeded with the low temperatures especially in areas were the overnight temperatures have dropped to the 4 to 5 degrees. The severe windy conditions have played havoc with spraying operations and has caused some crop damage.

 

         

Variety:  CDC Copeland
Location: Yorkton, Saskatchewan
Seeded: May 11, 2020
Picture taken: June 22, 2020

 

Crop Progress Report — June 9, 2020

 

 
Variety:  AC Metcalfe
Location: Southey, Saskatchewan
Picture taken: June 2, 2020
Seeded: May 15-18, 2020
Stage: Three leaf, starting to tiller

 

Crop Progress Report — June 1, 2020

Crop Progress Report — May 26, 2020

Farmers are fully immersed in the last push to get their crops seeded this week. Most farm operators will be hustling to complete their seeding program by the end of May, no one wants to finish seeding in June if it can be avoided. For the majority of farmers, they will finish planting their crops this week.

Alberta just received the rain that had been forecast by Environment Canada and the precipitation  benefitted the central and southern tier of the province. Unfortunately, the rains were more a deterrent to the northern tier, especially in the Peace River Region. The heavy rains impacted their ability to get the crops seeded in a timely fashion and many farmers will be planting their fields into June which will could negatively impact their yields. Saskatchewan’s seeding pace was good last week with most regions experiencing dry conditions. The West Central and parts of the Southwest and Northeast regions received some good rains. Manitoba is lagging behind the other two provinces in their seeding activity.

ALBERTA
The forecasted rains came to fruition and there was a general rainfall that covered the entire province. Moisture levels varied from 20mm to 100mm. It was a tale of two regions getting rain, one desperately needed (Southern Region) and the other not wanting it (the Peace Region). Much of the province was plagued with well below seasonal temperatures last week which negatively impacted good crop development. Warmer weather is forecast for this coming week which will promote better crop growth.

Southern Region- ( Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost )
The rains came in amounts that have not been seen in this region in over five years. The entire region got soaked. Rainfall amounts ranged from 75mm (3 inches) to 100mm (4 inches). This area was desperate for rain and they received it. For a number of farms, the rainfall amounts totalled more moisture than they received throughout the entire growing season last year. The precipitation provided a huge relief to farmers. Now the soil moisture has been recharged and the crops are off to a great start. All the barley crops are fully emerged and some farmers will be spraying the barley in the next week to ten days.

Central Region – ( Rimbey, Ardrie, Olds )
The rains that were forecast did materialize showering the entire region. Rainfall levels averaging 60 to 75mm ( 2 1/2 to 3 inches)  soaked the region and replenished the soil moisture. Early seeded crops will definitely benefit from this precipitation. The barley acres are roughly 90% planted and the last of the barley acres should get seeded this week. The one negative to crop development in this area has been the chilly temperatures, which persisted throughout the past two weeks. Warmer weather is set to enter the region this week though which will promote better crop growth.

North East Region – (Smoky Lake, Vermilion, Camrose, Provost)
This is another region that received roughly 50mm to 60mm ( 2 to 2 1/2 inches ) of rain this past week. Seeding in this area was also slowed down as farmers had to combine their fall crops. This region is a little behind in their seeding due to wet conditions and chilly temperatures which plagued this area last week with well below seasonal averages. There were a number of days the temperatures registered in the single digit Celsius degrees for a day time high. This type of weather does not promote good crop growth. The wet conditions did delay seeding, but for most farmers they were able to get back in their fields on the weekend. The weather forecast calls for slightly below seasonal day time temperatures, however this should not slow down seeding activity. Barley is roughly 75% seeded in this area and should be completed this week.

North West – (Barrhead, Edmonton, Leduc, Drayton Valley, Athabasca)
This region was drenched with over 40mm of rain this past week. The wet conditions will hamper seeding activity, as in some areas the soil is soggy and farmers will have to wait for fields to dry. The weather has not been cooperative with this above average rainfall and temperatures registering below seasonal norm. This last week, Thursday and Friday temperatures registered at +7 degrees Celsius for a day time high, which is not conducive to drying fields or crop development. This area is lagging behind in seeding activity and will feel the pressure to get all their crop planted by the end of the month.

Peace River – (Fairview, Grande Prairie)
This region simply needs warm, dry weather to move seeding along. Unfortunately, it has not been the recipient of good weather as it has been wet and seeding progress has been stalled. This region has been getting small amounts of moisture on a weekly basis which is keeping fields soggy and delaying seeding operations. The area was two weeks behind on start up and a number of farmers will be stressed to get their crops seeded by the middle of June. The late seeding may have a negative impact on crops including yield potential.

SASKATCHEWAN
Much of the province was plagued with well below seasonal day time temperatures last week, which negatively impacts good crop development. Warmer weather is forecast for this coming week which will promote better crop growth. Seeding activity was at fever pitch as farmers have been hurrying to get their fields seeded by the end of the month. The majority of the province has adequate moisture, but a rain in early June would be beneficial for crop development. Most of the regions were dry and permitted farmers to move quickly. Rains helped to replenish soil moisture in the West Central and the Northeastern regions. Crops have started to emerge and are mostly in good shape but many producers have seen limited rainfall and the windy conditions have reduced top soil moisture. Rainfall in early June would be welcomed to improve the top soil moisture and promote crop development.

Southwest Region – ( Swift Current, Maple Creek)
The barley crop is 100% seeded in this region and the crop has emerged. Windy dry conditions persist and this has contributed to a depletion of the topsoil moisture. This region received some timely rains with moisture levels ranging from trace to a high of up to 65mm ( 2 1/2 inches ) in the Cabri area. All crop seeding should be completed this week.

West Central Region – ( Saskatoon, Kindersley, Biggar)
Seeding progress is now advancing quickly in this region. Seeding activity was interrupted on Wednesday/Thursday last week when rain finally arrived and deposited 25mm (1 inch) to 50mm (2 inches) of much needed moisture which replenished the top soil levels. Hanley received over 50 mm ( 2 inches ) throughout the day Wednesday. The Kindersley area benefited from 25mm (1 inch) on Thursday. This was the first significant rain, for this region, this spring and was needed to promote germination and crop development.

Northwest Region – ( North Battleford, Lloydminster)
The pace of seeding was good this week as farmers rushed to get their crop planted by the end of the month. Barley seeding is advancing quickly with barley over 75% seeded and the remaining acres should be completed this week. The weather forecast for the week is for mostly seasonal daytime temperatures and a slight chance of showers. This region could use a good rainfall in the next ten days to support good germination and crop development.

Southeast Region – ( Regina, Weyburn, Moosomin)
In general seeding conditions have been very good this past week and barley acres should be completed this week. Soil conditions are good but rains will be needed in the next week to ten days. There is some rain in this week’s forecast. The one element that has had an impact on crop development has been the cool weather that has dominated the area. A lack of heat has not aided in good crop development. This week’s weather will have some heat with most day time temperatures forecast to be in the mid 20s Celsius. This region should complete seeding before month end.

Northeast Region – ( Prince Albert, Tisdale, Melfort, Nipawin)
Some of this region received up to 50mm ( 2 1/2 inches ) of rain this past week, especially in the Rosthern/Hoey area which greatly benefitted the recently seeded barley fields. The remainder of the region received good seeding weather and planting is going smoothly. All the malt barley should be seeded. Most of the region has seen very little precipitation this spring especially the Hudson Bay and Carrot River area. The sub soil moisture is adequate to get the crop germinated, but a rain will be needed in the next week to ten days advance the crop development. There is a 60% of rain for the eastern section of the region for the early part of this week. For a region that was delayed, due to wet and cool conditions, seeding is advancing quickly, most farmers are optimistic they will be finished planting their crops by month’s end.

East Central Region – ( Yorkton, Kamsack, Watrous)
Seeding is advancing quickly as dry conditions and the lack of any major precipitation helped push up the percentage of planted acres. However conditions have not been ideal. It has been chilly and not much heat to advance crop germination and development. The Yorkton area received a 10mm to 15mm ( 1/2 inch ) rainfall Friday which will benefit the recently seeded crops. Warmer weather is forecast for this week with temperatures hovering at the 20 Celsius level. More rain is needed to move the crops along. Farmers are optimistic that they will finish seeding this coming weekend.

MANITOBA
Seasonal temperatures and generally dry weather is forecast for the week which will help farmers get their crops seeded by month end.

Southwest Region – (Brandon, Virden, Boissevain)
Warmer weather over the past week helped advance the seeding activity. The first half of the month was cold and frosty which slowed down seeding efforts, but this past week’s heat has help restore the crop growth and the weather forecast for the next 7 days is warm with should benefit getting the remainder of the crop seeded. There were some spotty rains over the weekend ranging from 10mm to 25mm which will promote germination in the crops that have been seeded.  Soil moisture is good, a rain in early June would spur on the recently planted crops.  Although this region was two weeks behind in starting seeding operations there are no concerns to get the crop planted before month end.

Northwestern Region – (Roblin, Swan River, Dauphin)
Warmer temperatures were welcomed in the region for the past week, a contrast from the cool/cold temperatures that the region suffered through the first two weeks of May. Seeding continues as farmer rush to get seeding completed for the end of May. All the cereals should be planted this week. Most of the region has adequate soil moisture, sufficient to get the crop emerged. A good rain in early June would benefit the crops.

Central Regional – (Portage La Prairie, Red River Valley)
Much warmer temperatures help speed up seeding activity this past week. There was a decent rain over the weekend depositing 12mm ( 1/2 inch ) to 25mm ( 1 inch ) of precipitation. It was a general rain that will certainly help advance the recently seeded crops. All the barley is seeded and is germinating. Mostly dry weather is forecast for the week which should help farmers complete their spring planting.

Crop Progress Report — May 19, 2020

WESTERN CANADA

After a slow start, seeding activity has advanced well this past week across the Prairies. Most regions had fallen behind the five-year average but were making good strides in closing the gap. It has been a challenging spring for a segment of the farmers; some had unharvested acres to combine, many had wet fields and cold weather to contend with which delayed the start of seeding. But warmer weather has arrived allowing fields to dry and farmers to push ahead with seeding. The Peace River region still has an issue with wet fields. The Southern and the East Central regions of Alberta and the West Central and Southwest regions of Saskatchewan remain dry and will require some timely rains to promote good crop germination.

Seeding started later than normal but providing a normal weather pattern the majority of the Prairie acres will get seeded by the end of May. For some the planting of their crop will extend into the first week of June which is not optimal. There is rain in the forecast for much of the Prairies this week and for most areas this will be beneficial. After the rains we need good dry weather to complete seeding and promote crop development.

ALBERTA

The southern region is the most advanced in seeding but it will require timely rains throughout the growing season. The Peace region is struggling with wet fields which has slowed down seeding. There is potential for significant rainfall throughout most of the province this week.

Southern Region (Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost):  Barley seeding is complete. What is needed now is rain to advance the crop. This area has been dry for two years and the cycle of high winds and lack of significant precipitation has left the region with less than adequate soil moisture. There is rain in the forecast for mid-week which would be a huge benefit for crop germination.

Central Region (Rimbey, Airdrie, Olds): After a slow start due to wet fields and cold temperatures, seeding is advancing quickly in this region. Barley seeding is now 30-40% complete. There is rain in the forecast this week, with the potential for a 3-4 day rain event.  If this rain materializes it would hamper seeding activity for a number of days.

Northeast Region (Camrose, Vermillion, Provost): Poor weather conditions had stalled seeding as wet fields could not support seeding equipment, but warmer weather in recent days has helped dry the fields and seeding is moving ahead at a quick pace. Rain is forecast for mid-week which will further hamper seeding activity.

Northern Region (Edmonton, Barrhead, Leduc): Seeding was delayed in this area due to wet fields. Excessive moisture has been a reoccurring theme in this region. Some farmers will struggle to get their crops in before month end and will have to extend seeding into the early part of June. Temperatures are trending higher but remain below the seasonal average. Many producers are concerned about the precipitation forecasted for this week slowing them down as soil moisture conditions are already rated adequate-to-surplus.

Peace River Region (Grande Prairie, Fairview): Farmers are under a great deal of pressure as they struggle with persistent wet conditions slowing down seeding activity. Dry, warm weather is what is needed, however rain is forecast again for this week. It will be a challenge to get this region all seeded by early June, at which point some of the crops will be at risk for proper crop development.  Soil moisture is classified as excessive.

SASKATCHEWAN

The weather is trending warmer, which is what many regions need for their fields to dry out and permit farmers to get their crops planted. A number of areas had delayed seeding due to wet and cold conditions. There were many fields in the Northwest, East Central and Northeast regions left unharvested which had to be combined this spring. It will be a challenge for the province to get all their acres seeded by the end of May. There is rain forecast for mid-week which will slow down seeding activity. After the rains, warm dry weather is what the province will require for the next two weeks to advance seeding, with the current long-term forecast projecting limited precipitation and seasonal temperatures.

Southwest Region (Swift Current, Maple Creek): Farmers are making good progress and should have over well over 50% of barley seeded. This is an area that is traditionally short of moisture and that is the case again this spring. Currently there is some rain in the forecast this week which would be an important boost to get the crop off to a good start, but more will be needed soon. A number of farmers will be finished seeding by the weekend.

Southeastern Region (Regina, Weyburn, Moosomim): This region has been challenged with some unharvested acres that had to be combined. There were also issues with standing water and wet field conditions which delayed seeding. Warmer, drier weather of late has seen farmers aggressively planting their crops. Continued dry weather is what is needed to get the crop seeded by month end with the short term forecast looking positive, however rain is expected by the weekend. Soil moisture is not an issue with 90% of the area having adequate to surplus soil moisture.

East Central Region (Yorkton, Kamsack): This region was delayed by a week to ten days in their spring seeding due to wet soil conditions and cold temperatures. Warmer, drier weather this past week has seen seeding ramp up, however rain is expected later this week.  Farmers have seeded approximately 30% of their barley acres and some will have to scramble to get their crop seeded by the end of May. The moisture profile is ranked as adequate-to-surplus.

West Central Region (Saskatoon, Rosetown, Kindersley): Farmers in this region are making good seeding progress. The daytime temperatures were in the low 20’s for the last week which benefited seeding conditions. The crop should be close to 50% seeded at this time. The forecast is for possible rain showers later this week, which would certainly benefit the early seeded crop. This region should be able to get their acreage seeded by month end.

Northeastern Region (Melfort, Tisdale): Seeding was delayed due to wet fields and cold temperatures which pushed planting back by ten days. Farmers were anxiously waiting to get started seeding once fields dried and warmer weather arrived this past week. Dry conditions will persist until mid-week when rains are forecast. There was some early seeded barley that succumbed to early morning frost in mid-May and had to be reseeded. Some farmers hope to be finished seeding by this coming weekend, weather permitting. Barley is approximately 30% seeded.

Northwestern Region (North Battleford, Lloydminster): This region was a little late in starting to seed. There were some unharvested acres that had to be combined and there were many fields that were simply too wet. It was one thing to harvest in the mud, but no one wants mud in their crop. Drier weather this past week permitted seeding activity to move forward, however showers forecast later this week will slow the pace.

MANITOBA

This province is the furthest behind in their seeding percentage. Simply put, wet fields and many nights of below zero temperatures have stalled the start of planting in the majority of the province. Seeding progress is slower than normal. There were some rain events this past week which will help the early-seeded barley. The May long weekend weather was warm and gave farmers the opportunity to get into their fields and pick up the pace in their seeding activity.

Southwest Region (Brandon, Virden): Unfavourable weather conditions delayed the start of seeding in this region. Although this region is behind their 5-year average for acres seeded, this week’s weather scenario is for hot and dry conditions which will result in a rapid progress in the amount of acres seeded. Barley should be 25-30% seeded at this time.

Northwest Region (Roblin, Swan River, Dauphin): Cool weather and soil temperatures held back seeding progress. Warmer weather is forecast for this region this week which will benefit the pace of seeding. Approximately 30-35% of the barley has been planted.

Central Region (Winnipeg, Red River Valley): Seeding has been done in stops and starts – overnight low temperatures below zero through last week prevented fields being seeded. There was also some precipitation, which was well needed but slowed down seeding activity. Warmer weather this past weekend and early this week will allow farmers to advance seeding rapidly. Some farmers, weather permitting, will complete their seeding this week. Some barley fields are slowly emerging. Barley should be over 40% seeded to date.

CMBTC Crop Progress Report — July 27, 2020

06/08/2020

Crops across the Canadian Prairies continue to look good and in some regions excellent. The only point of concern is the lateness of a majority of the crop due to lack of heat units which has pushed back crop development one week to ten days later than normal. In some areas there are concerns over disease due to excessive moisture conditions. We are now down to 30-45 days before the barley harvest will begin, depending on the region.  The forecast is for a 10.5 million tonne Canadian barley crop with the potential to be larger if there are no adverse weather issues now until harvest.

ALBERTA

Persistent rains continue to be a reoccurring scenario for most regions with the exception of the South. The excessive moisture is negatively impacting the crop, especially in the North West and Peace regions with barley showing significant yellowing due to wet conditions. Soil moisture reserves are above normal or higher for the majority of province, with some very wet areas in the Central, North East, North West and Peace Regions which are near a one in 50-year high.

The other feature that has plagued most of Alberta has been the lack of warm weather. Many of the regions have failed to register normal spring and summer time temperatures and that has prevented some fields from drying out and slowed down good crop development. In most regions the barley crop will be a week to ten days behind normal crop growth and that will push harvest into September.

Southern Region: ( Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost )

This region received trace amounts of rain in the last two weeks. The moisture conditions are rated 85% good to excellent. Crop development is a little behind due to cool and cloudy days, however, heat is moving into the region this week with temperatures forecast to be in the 30 degrees Celsius range which will advance crop development.  The barley crop looks good and the potential to produce a high quality, disease free crop is looking favorable providing there are no weather surprises.  Harvest should begin in late August for the early seeded barley fields.

Central Region: ( Rimbey, Ardrie, Olds )

This region has benefitted from good rainfalls, what is needed now is dry warm weather to move into the region. It’s simply too wet which is reducing the prospects for a good quality crop.  At 95% excellent moisture rating no more precipitation is required until after harvest. The excessive moisture conditions are causing yellowing in the crop. Spraying has been a challenge and some farmers had to hire airplanes to apply fungicides as the fields are too soft to support ground spraying. This region has struggled to get normal summer time temperatures and that has slowed down crop development. This week, the forecast is for temperatures in the mid 20s Celsius, warmer temperatures will help as long as there are no additional rain events. Crop development is lagging behind seven to ten days behind normal.

North East Region: (Smoky Lake, Vermilion, Camrose, Provost)

The moisture rating in this region is 99% good to excellent. Yields and quality will be affected by the wet conditions. No additional precipitation is need prior to harvest. The forecast is for warm, sunny days is which is what the region requires. Similar to other regions in Alberta, the crop is a week to ten days behind in normal development. Lack of proper heat units has plagued crop advancement. Aerial spraying was necessary to apply the fungicides as some fields were too wet to spray with the normal ground spraying.

North West Region: (Barrhead, Edmonton, Leduc, Drayton Valley, Athabasca)

This region has been excessively wet for the entire growing season, it seldom goes a week without some precipitation. Flooded out acreage has increased due to continued rainfall.  The region has suffered numerous rain events that have negatively affected the crop rating which dropped to only 27% good down from 44% early in the month. The moisture rating is 100% with 65% in the excessive category, which gives an indication of the severity of the moisture conditions.  The prospects for a good barley crop are slim, and it will be the odd pocket that produces good quality malt barley.  Fungicide spraying has been done by airplane in most areas as fields are too soft to support ground spraying.  Crop development is ten days behind normal. Mainly sunny and warmer temperatures are forecast for the week.

Peace River Region: ( Fairview, Grand Prairie )

More rainfall brought extra moisture to an already wet region. This region simply cannot go a week without getting some precipitation. The moisture rating is at 100% good to excessive with 15% been in the excessive category. Due to the wet conditions and lack of heat units, the crop is behind normal development by 1-2 weeks. The wet conditions raise concerns about the region being able to produce sufficient quality malt barley. Rain free warm days are needed, and while the forecast is for sunny, warm weather early in the week, there is a risk of showers in the later part of the week.

SASKATCHEWAN

Crop conditions continue to look good to excellent in the majority of the province. There are some regions in particular, such as the West Central and Northeast regions, that could produce some very high quality crops. Warmer weather this past week and recent rains have benefited crop development. For many regions they will be experiencing their hottest week of the growing season. The forecast is for hot temperatures, in the high 20s and low 30s Celsius which will help advance crop development. The barley crops in most regions are at near normal stages of development for this time of year. For many farmers they are looking at starting their harvest in last ten days of August and others in early September.

Southwest Region: ( Assiniboia, Swift Current, Maple Creek )

The barley crop is rated good to very good, however, their are some fields that are starting to show some lack of moisture stress especially around Shaunavon and Hazenmore. For this time of year the crops are at their normal stages of development. The weather forecast for the week calls for hot and sunny days with limited possibility of rain. A decent rain would aid the crop as the topsoil moisture, which is limited, has deteriorated in some of the areas due warmer temperatures and limited rainfall.

Northwest Region: ( North Battleford, Lloydminster )

Another 33 mm ( 1 1/3 inch ) of rain fell in the North Battleford area, this leaves this area and a number of other sections of this region wet. The cropland top soil moisture is rated 100% adequate to surplus, with 15% in the surplus category. Warm dry weather is need to improve crop conditions and dry out fields. This week, the forecast is for higher than normal temperatures and a high probability of more precipitation this coming weekend. Most of the crops are at normal development for this time of year. The region needs warm temperatures and no additional rain to advance the crop. Fungicide applications, for a number of fields, had to be applied by airplane as the fields were too soft for normal ground spraying.

West Central Region: ( Saskatoon, Kindersley, Biggar )

This region received small amount of moisture this pass week. Crop conditions are good to excellent and the crop growth is advancing quickly with the warmer weather that the region has enjoyed the past two weeks. Warm weather will again be a feature this week, with temperatures hovering near the 30 degrees Celsius mark. The majority of the barley crop is rated at the normal developmental stage for this time of year. The topsoil rating is at 96% adequate to surplus which is well above the normal rating for this time year.

The crop potential is looking favorable for a large, high quality crop to be harvested this year. Harvest should start last half August.

Southeast Region: ( Regina, Weyburn, Moosomin )

Rainfall was variable these past two weeks in the region. The Regina area benefitted from a rainfall, this past Thursday July 23rd,  producing 23mm ( 1 inch ) of moisture. Weyburn and Moosomin were the recipients of trace amounts of rainfall in the last two weeks.  Crops are advancing quickly and farmers are expecting to be harvesting their barley crops within  30 days. Topsoil moisture ratings remain above 80% adequate and one more rain would help complete the barley crop development this growing season. The current week weather forecast is for mostly sunny days, with temperatures in the high 20s Celsius with a few days in the 30s and the high probability of rain for the later part of the week.

Northeast Region: ( Prince Albert, Tisdale, Melfort, Nipawin )

This region has had a variable weather pattern throughout the growing season. Some instances of intense rainfall, some areas missing the rains and other sections of the region were hammered by hail. Some of the fields that were hit by hail are coming back, other fields, unfortunately, have been written off. For the most part, a number of areas have not had seasonal temperatures and for that fact their crop development has suffered. Some areas such as Hoey and Prince Albert are roughly 7 to 10 days behind normal development. Warmer temperatures this week will advance the crop maturity, however, some of the fields will be harvested in early September rather than in the last week of August.

Some fields, in the Tisdale area, will be harvested in the third week of August, all going well. In general, the crop prospects for this area are looking good and the potential for a large high quality crop are tempered only by the threat of hail or additional rain events.

East Central Region: ( Yorkton, Kamsack, Watrous )

On the 19th and 20th of July a two day rain event produced 37mm ( 1 1/2 inches ) of moisture in the Yorkton and Kamsack areas. These rains combined with hot temperatures advanced the growth development of the barley crop. The Watrous area only received a trace of precipitation from this rain event. One more decent rain would be ideal to help the barley crops to fill and prevent any crop stress. Overall the crops look good in this region. The majority of the fields were sprayed with fungicide. There are some farmers that plan to commence their barley harvest within the next 30 days.

MANITOBA
In general the barley crops are in average to good condition. Hot temperatures have advanced crop development in the last two weeks. Expectations are that some barley fields will be harvested in the third week of August.

Southwest Region: ( Brandon, Virden, Boissevain ) 

The region is wet and in the pass week a thunderstorm deposited an additional 25mm ( 1 inch ) of rain in the Brandon/Virden area. Growing degree-days are normal in most of the region but precipitation is well above normal this year. Soil moisture conditions are good to excessive in some areas. Wawanesa and Boissevain areas are not as wet and in some cases could use one more decent rain to help fill their barley crop. Most of the barley fields have a fungicide application done in the last week. Warmer weather is in the forecast however there is the threat of rains later in the week which the region does not require.

Northwestern Region: ( Roblin, Swan River, Dauphin ) 

In the last two weeks Dauphin has received 56mm ( 2 inches ) of rain and Swan River over 70mm ( nearly 3 inches ) of rain. These areas now require some heat and no additional moisture to advance their crop growth. The wet conditions have made weed control and fungicide spraying a challenge. The weather forecast is for sunny hot days in the early segment of the week and then there is the risk of rain in the later part of the week. Overall the barley crop looks good in this region

Central Regional: ( Portage La Prairie, Red River Valley )
The region has been dry over the last two weeks with minimal precipitation. Hot and humid conditions with temperatures over the 30 Celsius mark for the last week to ten days have advanced crop growth.  With the recent precipitation, high humidity and heavy dews, fungicidal protectants have been applied to most barley fields. The barley crop is rated good to excellent. This week, the forecast for warm temperatures which will advance the barley crop. There is sufficient moisture to carry the crop into mid August.  The crop potential is favorable for this region.

Malting Barley Market Outlook for 2020-21

29/04/2020

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted markets and has the potential to negatively impact supply chains. The following offers some perspective on prospects for malting barley and malt demand in 2020/21 in light of the potential contraction in the global brewing sector.

The world’s malting and brewing industries are facing some very challenging circumstances in light of the corona virus pandemic which will inevitably result in a drop in global malting barley use for beer production in 2020. According to the National Bureau of Statistics of China, beer production volume in China fell by -40% year over year in the first two months of 2020, which would represent roughly 5% of total annual production.

Mexico, the world’s 4^th largest beer producer, temporarily suspended beer production in early April, and Heineken, the world’s second largest brewer, recently reported a -14% drop in beer sales in March. In North America, the loss of beer sales at concerts and sporting events has been partially offset by an increase in off-premise sales, with Nielsen reporting a +41% increase in U.S. retail beer sales during the week of March 15^th compared with a year earlier, but there is little doubt the beer sector will experience a contraction this year, the question is how significant it will be.

In China, by far the world’s largest malting barley import market, the medium-term impact on beer consumption will depend on the speed and extent of their economic recovery, in particular the re-opening of bars and restaurants that constitute the bulk of China’s beer sales. With a similar beer culture in Japan, where most beer is consumed outside the home, consumption is hard hit, however other Asian countries may not be impacted to the same extent. Countries like Vietnam and Cambodia, which have large populations and relatively high per-capita beer consumption rates, tend to consume beer at home.

The global brewing industry requires around 25 MMT of malting barley a year, so a -10% contraction in total global beer production would translate into 2.5 MMT drop in malting barley demand. If countries can re-start their economies later this spring, the impact may not be as severe as had been feared, although there has already been some significant damage done to the beer economy and no one in the value chain expects to come out of this unscathed in 2020. For Canada, as one of the world’s largest malting barley and malt exporters, there is little doubt we will feel the impact of the global contraction in the beer sector.

US craft sector to be hard hit

In the United States, a recent survey indicated a majority of craft brewers could face the prospect of closing their doors within 3 months if the shutdown remains in place. Smaller craft brewers tend to rely heavily on on-premise sales, which is why they are hit particularly hard. And while many of these brewers are small, and represent only a fraction of overall U.S. beer production, the craft industry in general is being heavily impacted by the current situation which is worrisome for Canada as the craft industry represents an important market for Canadian malt. From purely a volume standpoint, the biggest impact on beer consumption in North America is likely to be the lack of sporting events, festivals and concerts, and this will be felt primarily by bigger brewers. With the absence of beer consumption in bars and at events, it is not surprising therefore that there has been a bump in retail beer sales. But this is unlikely to offset the drop in sales in establishments and at events. A -10% drop in overall US beer production in 2020 would translate into a reduction in malting barley demand to the tune of 300 KMT, not an insignificant figure. The US is Canada’s largest market for processed malt taking 50% of annual export sales, and the beer industry there is under severe strain with reduced malt purchases from Canada now a given.

China beer production resumes

In China, the world’s largest beer producer and malting barley importer, the majority of beer is consumed in commercial establishments, and as a result the impact on the beer sector so far in 2020 has been severe with reports of a -35% drop in beer production for the first quarter to 55 million hectolitres. And while China’s economy is slowly restarting, many commercial establishments remain closed, keeping a lid on beer consumption in the short term. A -10% contraction of overall in beer production in 2020 would translate into a drop of about 350 KMT of malting barley demand, and since China imports virtually all of its barley needs this would certainly impact global malting barley trade which is around 4.5 MMT annually.

On the positive side, anecdotally, very recent reports indicate that many malting and brewing companies in China have resumed production. China Resources Beer, China’s largest brewing company, indicated on March 20^th that the company’s beer output is back to 95% of production levels prior to the coronavirus outbreak, and they forecast beer sales in restaurants and nightlife channels to recover by May 2020. Moreover, China’s beer industry had been shifting toward more premium beer in recent years, requiring not only more malting barley, due to reduced use of adjuncts, but also more good quality barley, which has boosted purchases of Canadian barley with exports topping 1 MMT for three years in a row, and which should continue to be supportive of malting barley demand in China in the future.

At the end of the day, while there is little doubt use of malting barley will be down in China the coming year, and Canada will feel a hit (barring a production issue in another country), the impact is not expected to be as severe as was feared 6 weeks ago, assuming a gradual re-opening of China’s economy over the course of the Spring.

Canada Barley Update

15/02/2020

In 2019 Canada harvested its largest barley crop since 2008 at 10.4 million tonnes (MT), a remarkable increase of 24% over the 2018 crop of 8.4 MT, the result of a 12% increase in barley seeded area last Spring combined with a 12% yield bump.  In spite of the bigger crop, the extraordinarily wet harvest of 2019 resulted in a reduced selectable supply of malting barley estimated at around 2.3 MT compared with well over 3 mln tonnes in each of 2017 and 2018 (although not all of the available supply was selected in those years).  With the domestic malting industry in Canada using roughly 1.0-1.1 MT of malting barley annually, Canada’s malting barley export program this year will likely come in just over 1.0 MT, compared with ~1.4 MT last year, and ~1.3 MT in 2017-18.

The following are some of the major points with respect to the Canadian and global barley production in 2019-20:

• Global barley production in 2019 was 156.1 MT compared with 138.9 MT in 2018, an increase of 17.2 MT or 12%. This was the result of increases in other regions as well as Canada including:
  • EU barley production rose to 62.8 MT, an increase of 6.9 MT or 12.3% from 2018;
  • Russia barley  production increased from 16.7 MT to 20.0 MT, an increase of 3.3 MT or 19.5% from 2018;
  • Ukraine barley output rose from 7.6 MT to 9.5 MT, an increase of 1.9 MT or 25% from 2018.

In Australia, where drought has reduced crop output for three years in a row, barley production dropped slightly this year to 8.2 MT from 8.3 MT in 2018, well below the average of 9-10 mln tonnes of recent years with seriously compromised this year due to the dry conditions.  The drought affected Australian barley crop and resulting smaller supplies the past couple of years has created opportunities for Canada in markets like China, Japan and even the Middle East for both malting and feed barley, although it was the smaller barley crop in Russia and Ukraine in 2018 which enabled Canada to be competitive on feed barley into the region that year.

One of the most important developments in the past two years has been the growth in sales of Canadian feed and malting barley to Japan. Feed barley exports to Japan ballooned to about 250,000 T in 2018-19, up from 50,000 T in 2017-18 and virtually nothing in 2016-17.  In 2019-20 Canada is en route to doing another healthy feed barley program to Japan, likely topping 200,000 T. Canada has also sold ~40,000 T of malting barley to Japan over the past two seasons, business that was normally reserved for Australia.  Overall in the current year, Canada’ barley export program to Japan may surpass 300,000 T, a little lower than the 350,000 T last  year, which again will include feed and malting barley as well as the traditional barley tea business.

Another interesting export destination the past two years has been Argentina which purchased 12,000 T of malting barley in 2018-19 and another 16,000 T  this year.  Clearly malting barley quality in Argentina has been an issue and presumably malting companies are sourcing Canadian to meet the demand of specific brewer customers.

Canada also sold ~160,000 T of feed barley last year to the Middle East (Oman, Dubai, UAE), surprisingly able to compete with the Black Sea where Russia and Ukraine has smaller crops in 2018, something which will not likely happen often, expecially with feed barley prices holding firm domestically.

With regard to the domestic market, in spite of the large barley crop this year, and increased supply of feed grains in W. Canada, domestic feed barley prices have been remarkably resilient.  Reduced supplies of corn from the US and the eastern Prairies have helped support Lethbridge feed barley values which dropped to $4.50 after harvest but have since rebounded to around $5.

Overall, in spite of the awful harvest conditions this year, the situation in W. Canada’s barley market has been reasonably positive in 2019-20 with a good export program (CGC weekly exports indicate 1.150 MT at week 27 compared with 1.200 MT last year at this time) and decent overall movement (producer deliveries are over 200,000 T ahead of last year at 2.266 MT at week 27).

Looking to 2020-21, AAFC has their preliminary projections for seeded area steady from this year at 2.9 mln hectares, although production dropping back to 9.5 MT based on trend yields.  As Canada will have virtually no malting barley carry out, we will need a good growing and harvest season to replenish supplies and be in a position to continue to service our traditional customers and hopefully a few newer ones along the way.

CMBTC Crop Progress Update

04/10/2019

The harvest in Western Canada continues to face extraordinarily challenging conditions as record breaking snow storms covered southern Alberta and parts of Saskatchewan earlier this week. The enormity of the storm and the accumulation of rain/snow across the prairies brought everything to a standstill, prolonging an already delayed harvest.  Temperatures last week were in the single digits, well below seasonal averages, although they are forecast to return closer to seasonal levels later this week before dipping again next week.

The problem now is that many fields are so wet they cannot sustain the weight of the combines. This is different from summer rains when the ground dries out after a few days. Many fields are saturated and this is resulting in further degradation of crops. What remains in the fields will mostly be of feed quality, limiting the supply of malting barley this year.

The story of this year’s harvest is that while quality has been severely compromised by wide spread rains and cool temperatures across the prairies, there are pockets of good quality malting barley where farmers were able to get the crop off in good condition.  Early quality indications are mixed with very low proteins reported in some areas (e.g. 9-10%) contrasted with other regions where protein is on the higher end (12-15%). Reports are of generally lower than average test weight and plump kernels, with many regions seeing sprout damage although germination levels are strong at this time. Farmers are also reporting high yields and little in the way of fusarium/DON present in the 2019 crop.

As much as possible, producers with malting barley at high moisture levels, that is otherwise sound, will want to get their barley into aeration bins to preserve quality, or optimally have it dried down to 13.5% moisture. Pre-sprouted barley may still qualify for malt if levels are low/moderate, particularly for the domestic malting industry who can process the grain quickly, so producers should check with their local elevator or malting company selector regarding options.

Alberta

There was heavy snowfall in the southern region of the province earlier this week, registering over 50 cm in the Lethbridge area. The wet conditions in most of the other regions brought harvest activity to a standstill. Wet/snowy conditions were also prevalent in the mid and northern regions of the province. The harvest will continue to be slow and farmers will struggle to get the crop into the bin. All the grain is tough and will have to be dried, which is a costly and time consuming exercise. Unfortunately, most of the crop remaining in the fields will be feed quality as too much wet, cool weather has degraded the barley.

• Southern region (Lethbridge, Strathmore, Foremost): This region received over 50 cm of snow which completely shut down all harvest. The forecast is for primarily sunny and dry conditions over the next week.
• Central region (Rimbey, Airdire, Olds): Snow and rain stalled harvest in this area and cool wet conditions have been a constant for the last month. Farmers have struggled to harvest their barley crop and should have roughly 60% completed by the end of September.  The forecast is for drier, warmer weather in coming days, which should permit farmers to get back into the fields, although next week temperatures will drop again to below normal, with the potential for more moisture and even snow next week. The remainder of the harvest will be a struggle and the remaining barley will be tough and mostly of feed quality.
• Northeast region (Vermillion, Camrose, Provost): Cool and wet weather has delayed harvest however the weather pattern has improved somewhat with drier, warmer temperatures later this week, approaching more seasonal daytime levels for the weekend. This stretch of dry weather will allow farmers to resume harvest operations. According to the Alberta Crop Report only 8% of the harvested barley to date is eligible for malt barley. Most of the remaining barley will be feed and will be harvested tough and have to be dried.
• Northwest region (Barrhead, Edmonton, Leduc): Harvest is progressing slowly due to uncooperative weather conditions with only about 30% harvested to date, and last weekend’s snow/rain further slowed harvest progress. The weather improved in the latter part of this week and while the forecast is for more seasonal temperatures in coming days, continued intermittent rains will continue to slow harvest progress. To date, much of the harvested barley has been feed grade. Similar to the other regions, the grain is harvested tough and will have to be dried.
• Peace River region (Grand Prairie, Fairview): Scattered light showers and wet, cool conditions over the last week limited the amount of acres harvested. Drier conditions and more seasonal temperatures are forecast for the weekend, but there is more rain in the forecast for next week which will simply add to the delays in this year’s harvest and compromise quality prospects.

Saskatchewan

A stretch of warmer and relatively dry weather will enter most regions of the province this week and temperatures will be closer to the normal seasonal range. This will be an improvement over this past week when most regions were hit with snow or rain. The southwest corner of the province received 40 cm of snow, while the areas between Saskatoon and Regina and the north-central and northeast region up to Yorkton and south into Moosomin also received snow. This wet, snowy weather stalled the harvest again, which will require several consecutive days of dry, warmer weather to all harvest to resume.

As of September 30, the barley harvest is currently 68% complete according Saskatchewan Agriculture, with the southwest (78%) and northeast (81%) regions most advanced. Crops have been slow to dry down in the fields due to the frequent rains. The majority of the crop is tough and is being put into grain dryers and aerations bins. Much of the later harvested barley has a high chit count and will not be accepted for malt.

• Southwest region (Swift Current , Maple Creek): Snowy/wet conditions slowed down harvest but warmer, dry weather is moving into the region, which should get farmers back in the fields. Over 75% of the crop is in the bin, however the harvest is likely to drat out to mid month. Most remaining harvested grain will be tough and have to be dried.
• Southeast region (Regina, Weyburn, Moosomin): Harvest delays have been a common theme in this region due to cool, wet conditions and last weekend’s snowfall shut down harvest. Still farmers have managed to get more crop off between rains but it has been a struggle to harvest with the muddy conditions and equipment breakdowns. Dry, warmer weather has entered the region and forecast to continue through the weekend and into next week which will help farmers progress.
• Northeast region ( Melfort, Tisdale): Farmers have done a remarkable job of harvesting between rain events with 80% of barley harvested, but the rain and snow this last weekend shut down progress. Dry, warmer weather has moved into the region and is forecast to continue into next week which will give farmers a good opportunity to resume harvest, however most of the later harvested barley will not make malt due to excessive chit count.
• West Central region (Saskatoon, Rosetown, Kindersley): Harvest progress resumed later this week as drier conditions have entered the region with day time temperatures approaching seasonal averages of 15°C. The barley harvest is about 60% complete.
• East Central region (Yorkton, Kamsack):  Lingering rains and cool temperatures earlier this week kept harvest to a near standstill, however the weather is to improve on the weekend with warmer, dry weather entering the region which will enable farmers to return to their fields.
• Northwestern region (North Battleford, Lloydminster): This region is only about 55% harvested as snow and showers have hampered harvest operations, but farmers have made progress when the weather permitted. Frequent rains are recharging soil moisture but creating trouble for unharvested crops. Generally drier, warmer weather is forecast into next week, however rains expected on Friday may set the harvest back another few days.  Barley quality is deteriorating quickly under these conditions and the remaining unharvested crop is being downgraded due to mildew and sprouting.

Manitoba

The barley harvest is largely done in Manitoba, but the province continues to be punished with ugly weather conditions. Having rained seven of the last ten days, there has been little opportunity for farmers to enter their saturated fields with reports of a number of combines sunk to the axels in fields.  Farmers in Manitoba were able to harvest a good chunk of barley before the rains began in early September and as a result there was some nice quality malting barley produced. Reports are of good yields and higher protein levels this year compared with 2018.  Most of the later harvested barley will be relegated to feed.
Contributed by Pat Rowan