Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development July 20, 2015 |

Northwest Region
Unsettled weather over the past week caused localized thunderstorms throughout the entire Northwest Region. Although variable, this resulted in rainfall amounts of 50 to 76 mm in localized parts of the Swan Valley, up to 102 mm in the Roblin area, and 50 to 102 mm in parts of the Ste.Rose and McCreary areas. Hail was reported from the Ste Rose and McCreary areas, but caused minimal damage. Soil moisture conditions throughout most of the Northwest Region improved significantly over the past two weeks.

Approximately 85% of the winter wheat crop is in the dough stage. For spring wheat, about 50% of the crop is at the milk stage with the remaining 50% split evenly between the dough stage and flowering. Canola stands improved significantly over the week as the crop continued to develop rapidly. Approximately 85% of the canola crop is in full bloom with about 15% podded. Cereals in the Northwest Region are reported to be in good to fair condition while canola ranges from very good to poor, mostly because of dry conditions earlier in the season.

Approximately 80% of the corn crop is in the V6 to V13 stage of growth, while for soybeans 95% of the crop is blooming with about 5% of that podded. The flax crop is in full flower with some boll development occurring.

Weed control looks adequate for the most part but wild oat escapes have appeared in some wheat fields. Most fungicide applications have been completed on those fields requiring treatment. Insect activity throughout the region is minimal, although producers are continuing to scout canola crops for lygus bug and diamondback larva activity. There are low numbers of bertha armyworm reported in moth traps.

The much needed rain halted haying operations in many areas in the North Parkland and Valleys North. Pastures were depleting rapidly and second cut hay crop growth was very minimal due to limited moisture prior to the recent rains. Annual forage harvest has begun for silage production in some areas. Water supplies on pastures are adequate.