Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development May 11, 2015 |

Northwest Region

The Northwest Region received variable amounts of rainfall near the end of the week with accumulations ranging from 5 to 30 mm. The higher amounts occurred in the most southern part of Swan Valley. Soil conditions are variable throughout the region with excessive moisture experienced in some localized pockets and dry conditions in others, depending on the amount of rainfall, soil type and slope of the land.

Reported soil temperatures are between 3°C and 8°C. Night time temperatures were cool during the week with some morning temperatures at or below 0°C.

With the exception of The Pas, where wet soil conditions prevail, good seeding progress has been made. Seeding is estimated at 35 to 40% complete in the region. Approximately 65% of the cereal acres are planted, along with 10% of canola and 5% of the flax acres. Although a limited number of soybean acres are planted, many producers are awaiting the arrival of warmer temperatures before proceeding.

Growth of volunteer canola and volunteer wheat is evident, especially in undisturbed fields. General weed growth is slow and includes predominantly stinkweed, dandelions, hemp nettle and wild oats.
Flea beetles are reported in the Swan River Valley where feeding activity is occurring on volunteer canola seedlings.

Limited growth of forages throughout the North Parkland and Valley’s North areas of the region is due to minimal rainfall and heat. Cattle on pastures require supplementation of feed. Dugouts and water supplies are adequate.