Harvest season is moving quickly across the Prairies, with significant progress in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
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The Alberta Wheat Board stated that the harvest is ahead of schedule, thanks to dry conditions.
“The latest crop report was abbreviated (Sept. 16), so they only report the latest harvest numbers, which are 75 per cent for both wheat and barley. The harvest is ahead of schedule (59 per cent 5-year average) thanks to the harvest-friendly weather.”
Tests conducted on Sept. 9, with about 50 per cent of crops harvested, provide the latest data on crop quality in Alberta.
“Early reports showed overall strong quality and yields for spring wheat and a good year for barley and durum, but with some regional variations,” said the board.
In Saskatchewan, the province’s most recent crop report showed large gains between Sept. 9 and 15. The report provided updated completion numbers from across Saskatchewan.
- Southwest has 66 per cent completion.
- West-central and Northwest stand at 47 per cent.
- East-central comes in at 46 per cent.
- Northeast has 42 per cent of crops in the bin.
Seasonal safety tips
With harvest in full swing, officials urge drivers to be cautious of farm traffic. County of Vermilion River peace officer Wayne Elsbett stresses that safety is the key.
“Since farmers and ranchers have started to collect their crops, more tractors and other farm equipment will be seen on county roadways,” said Elsbett. “This can create potential hazards for motorists, who are being asked to stay alert to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
“Best driving practices are not to drive in any farm equipment blind spots where operators are not able to see you.”
He reminded motorists to slow down and keep 50 feet back from farm equipment.
With dry weather in the forecast, farmers will continue their long days of harvest throughout the coming weeks.
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