Alberta’s government is wishing farmers a safe, successful and productive harvest season.
RJ Sigurdson, minister of agriculture and irrigation and Highwood MLA, was quoted in a statement commemorating the harvest being underway.
“Fall is one of the busiest times of year for farmers and harvest means long days in the fields," said Sigurdson. "Thank you to our province’s dedicated farmers and ranchers who work tirelessly to put food on tables here at home and around the globe.”
Farmers across the province faced numerous challenges this year due to drought concerns and intense heat, but early reports indicate that this year's harvest yields are in line with historical averages.
All Alberta crop harvest is three per cent complete as of Aug. 13 — on schedule with the historical average — according to the Alberta Crop Report.
Crop conditions are currently rated 44 per cent good to excellent, continues the report.
The highest regional rating is in southern Alberta, where major crops are rated 60 per cent good to excellent. Southern Alberta is also expecting an above-average yield this year, continues the report.
The report is developed through a partnership between Agriculture and Irrigation, Agriculture Financial Services Corporation and the Association of Alberta Agricultural Fieldmen, and has been providing information to farmers and the public since 1940.
The Government of Alberta's website also offers information and resources for farming in dry conditions amid drought concerns.
