Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development October 20, 2014 |
Northwest Region
Favourable harvest weather of drying winds and warm temperatures throughout the Northwest Region resulted in harvest operations moving ahead significantly. The favorable weather also allowed major progress to be made in fall tillage operations and fertilizer applications.
The wheat harvest is approximately 95% complete. The average yield for hard red spring wheat is 50 bu/acre with about 15% of the crop grading #1 CWRS, 45% grading #2 CWRS, and 40% grading #3 CWRS and less.
The canola harvest is 95% finished. Reported canola yields range from 15 bu/acre to over 40 bu/acre. The average canola yield is down from last year and is estimated to be 30 bu/acre. The quality of canola harvested is 25% 1 Can, 65% 2 Can and the remainder 3 Can and sample.
Approximately 80% of the soybean crop is harvested. The average yield is estimated at 25 bu/acre, with 75% grading 2 CAN and 25% grading 3 CAN. Harvest of the field pea crop is complete with an average yield of 35 bu/acre grading 2 CAN. The flax crop is approximately 80% complete with an average yield of 23 bu/acre. Most of the flax is grading 2 CW.
The major limitation to crop production for 2014 in the Northwest Region was excessive moisture. Excessive moisture conditions resulted in crops being seeded 2 to 3 weeks later than normal and heavy rains throughout the growing season continuously stressed crop development. Drowned out areas of various sizes were common to many fields.
Producers did an adequate job of applying fungicides to susceptible crops at the most beneficial stage resulting in limited disease issues.
Insect issues throughout the region were limited over the growing season with the most severe being a lygus bug infestation in the northern part of the Swan River Valley where some fields required treatment.
Most fields in the region that are harvested are tilled and producers are in the midst of applying fall fertilizer.
Greenfeed harvest continues; however, there are issues with dry down and nitrates. Cattle remaining on pastures are supplemented with feed, or being moved to second cut alfalfa or crop residue fields. Some second cut remain to be baled. Silage harvest is continuing with 75% complete.