Northwest Region Crop Report Prepared by: Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives GO Teams & Crops Knowledge Centre September 30, 2013 |

Northwest Region

Throughout the Northwest Region, harvest operations were delayed by rainfall accumulations ranging from 15 to 80 mm. The highest amounts were reported in the area north of Ethelbert and Swan Valley, with lighter precipitation around Ste. Rose and Roblin. Crop drying conditions remained poor with cooler temperatures and cloudy conditions. However, on the weekend some limited harvest operations were able to resume.

Overall, harvested acres only increased slightly to an estimated 70%. Average to above average yield trends continue to be confirmed; lower yields are reported where early season moisture impacts occurred. Yields to date are: spring wheat 40 to 85 bu/acre; canola 15 to 60 bu/acre; oats 75 to 150 bu/acre and barley 50 to 100 bu/acre.

An estimated 50% of canola acres are in swath and 45% combined. Cereals are 75% combined, 25% swathed or ready for straight combining. Spring wheat is 90% combined and oats is 50% combined. Early in the week, some soybeans were harvested near Ste. Rose with yields at 40 to 45 bu/acre.

The light frosts of the previous week have stopped corn growth and dry down has begun. Later seeded soybeans have been affected while some forage millet and greenfeed is testing positive for nitrates.

Winter wheat and fall rye growth and development is benefiting from the recent moisture. Fall field tillage operations are ongoing as field conditions permit, along with baled straw and forage removal.