Alberta Seeding Ahead of Schedule at 17 Per Cent Done

by | May 7, 2021 | Crop Production, Seeding

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Alberta seeding is ahead of the historical average with 17 per cent of the crop in the ground, the May 4 provincial crop report says. However, while planting is ahead of average, dry conditions are causing concern.

“While the lack of precipitation is a concern, it has allowed seeding of the spring crops to get off to a fast start,” the report says.

Most areas of Alberta are ahead of their five-year averages for planting. Producers in the south have planted 46 per cent of their crop, the central is at 12 per cent, north east at seven per cent, and the north west at four per cent. The Peace is slightly behind schedule with less than one per cent planted, the release notes.

Dry Conditions Causing Concern

Lower than normal precipitation throughout March and April across Alberta has led to dry conditions, the report says.

Surface soil moisture is at reduced levels. It’s estimated 54 per cent of the province has good or excellent surface soil moisture —14 points below the previous five-year average. There have been a few reports of excessive moisture in the Peace region though, the repot notes.

The lack of moisture and cooler temperatures has resulted in generally poorer pasture conditions and hay growth. Forage and feed grain reserve feedback says approximately 90 per cent of producers have adequate or surplus forage and 83 per cent have adequate or surplus feed grain reserves to get them through until grazing begins.

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