Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture August 29, 2016 |

Northwest Region
Scattered showers occurred in various parts of the Northwest Region over the week with approximately 15 mm in Swan River, 30 mm in The Pas and scattered showers in the Roblin area. These showers slowed combine activity through the week, while swathing of canola continued. There were some reports of hail in the Swan River area over the weekend; however the extent of damage is not yet known. Soil moisture conditions are generally adequate throughout the region with some fields in Dauphin and The Pas area challenged by wet soil moisture conditions. With the exception of crops in those areas impacted by too much moisture earlier in the season, most field crops throughout the region continue to mature and are in relatively good condition.

Crops are advancing with spring wheat harvest operations underway in all areas of the region with the exception of The Pas. Approximately 30% of the red spring wheat harvest is complete in the Roblin and Dauphin areas, and 50% complete in the Swan River area. Yields are variable, ranging from 50 to 70 bu/acre. Canola continues to develop with 40% of the canola fields podding and 60% mature. Close to 50% of the canola is swathed in the Roblin and Dauphin areas, 20% in The Pas and 80% in Swan River areas. Field peas are also advancing with most fields at maturity and harvest operations reaching 95% complete. For those areas of the region with soybeans, for the most part, crops are podded with 15% of the acres at R7 stage.

Some post-harvest fieldwork has taken place, dependant on time and weather conditions.

Frequent rains continue to stall second cut hay and greenfeed harvest. Heavy rainfall in some areas caused field access issues. Feed quality will be an issue in crops that have been rained on multiple times in the swath. Some producers are opting to make round bale silage. Cereal silage harvest is nearing completion with yields reported as good to excellent. Overall, pastures are rated as good and water supply is adequate.