In Alberta, many of us are having a great time enjoying the hot and dry summer, whether we’re at our favorite waterholes, camping, or having picnics with family and friends. But, unfortunately, these conditions have caused big problems for Foothills and Rocky View Counties, as they’re facing agricultural disasters.
The hot and dry weather is making it hard for crops to grow well, causing crop losses. It’s also affecting pastures where cattle feed. This is making farmers and ranchers really worried, and they’re hoping and praying for some much-needed rain to come soon.
In Foothills County, the situation is dire. Councillor Rob Siewert described the predicament: “The perennial crops, the hay crops, and pastures are pretty well done for. Cereal crops are mixed, with some not bad, but most are in really rough shape.”
As a result of these dire conditions, Foothills County declared a Municipal Agricultural Disaster on June 28. Unfortunately, the declaration doesn’t automatically trigger funding or assistance programs.
In Rocky View County, the situation is less severe but still concerning. Acting Manager Jeff Fleischer reported recently that almost one in four of the county’s agriculture is on the brink of disaster, with another 40% not far behind. Pastures and hay crops have been particularly affected, facing minimal growth and write-offs.
The resilience of annual crops like wheat, barley, and canola has been a saving grace for Rocky View County, thanks to some timely but sporadic showers this July. But even with the recent showers, the hay crops in the county suffered due to the high temperatures in May and the lack of soil moisture reserves since the previous fall.
While this week’s forecasted hot and dry conditions might have outdoor enthusiasts rejoicing, farmers and ranchers are even more stressed. Everyone, it seems, is glued to the weather forecast, each with their own hopes for ‘perfect’ conditions, whatever that means to them.
