Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture
May 5, 2020 |

Northwest Region

Temperatures in the past week were generally cool throughout the region. Daytime temperatures were highest around the southern part of the region with highs of 21°C with overnight lows dropping to minus 5°C. Rain was widespread with precipitation amounts ranging from 5 to 13 mm. Soil moisture is generally adequate to normal, drying on the surface with good sub-surface moisture.

Fields are drying up however seeding operations are limited. Some clean up 2019 unharvested crop is taking place in areas where overwintered crop remained. There are a few producers around Roblin seeding peas while near Swan River there is a start on spring wheat, peas and fababeans. There is also a start around the Dauphin/Ste. Rose area with fertilizer going down and seeding taking place on lighter-textured soils. Winter cereals have generally survived the winter with few issues. Weed growth including volunteer canola has begun; insect activity is minimal to date.

Pasture and hay fields are just beginning to green up. Heat is required for plant growth as forecasted nighttime temperatures below zero all this week will hinder forage growth. Livestock remain in winter-feeding yards or on spring calving pastures. Soil moisture conditions are adequate with some areas wetter after Friday’s rainfall. Dugout levels are reported as full.