Farmers near Edmonton feel planting season is off to a good start
Wayne Schneider has no concerns so far this spring. The crops are broadly ideal conditions right now. Schneider grows barley, wheat, canola and peas South of Edmonton. He says the spring started out dry before rain moved in, along with cooler weather. That's been good for growing. All right now we've had lots of rain, timely rains, doesn't seem like it's been too much. The latest Alberta crop report agrees. Released Friday, it says seating is almost finished while crop growth is off to a good start across the province. Of the five year average around Edmonton in the northwest region, it's a much different story than last season when hot dry weather challenged producers. Last year was definitely dry throughout the whole year, whereas this year is almost. We've had more rain throughout Alberta. The report adds much of the province needs some of that warmer weather now for ideal growth. It's expected by the end of the week. Environment Canada is predicting temperatures in and around the city will climb into the high 20s next weekend. Schneider says that bodes well for his crops. They're taking up all the nutrients in water that they can right now and with the heat that'll be coming, they'll be growing even faster. There's still a long season ahead with chances for lots of different weather, but Schneider is encouraged by the early returns. I feel positive this year and hopeful about the end results. Eric Bay, Global News.