Agricultural News

Crop Report, provided by the Government of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, as of September 5, 2023.

For trees and shrubs, winter presents a series of formidable challenges. Harsh conditions, from freezing temperatures to limited sunlight, can take a toll on their health and vitality. In the harsh winter climates of Alberta, trees and shrubs often face various threats that can lead to extensive damage. From the biting cold temperatures and dry air to the winter sun and the relentless forces of wildlife, salt, deep freezes, heavy snow, and ice, the challenges are plentiful. However, by taking a few proactive measures, you can significantly reduce the potential for damage and ensure the survival and vitality of your trees and shrubs.

Since the last report on August 31, 2023, modest rains fell across much of the western portions of the Central Region, and large parts of the the North East and the North West Regions, with many lands receiving between 5 to 10 mm of rain, just enough to put a temporary pause on harvest activities in these areas. Once again, most of the Southern Region and the eastern portions of the Central Region and parts of the Peace Region remained dry.

FarmCash is a cash advance program and cash flow management tool offered by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to producers across Western Canada, in B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan and Maintoba. It provides marketing flexibility when selling, low interest savings, risk mitigation during the growing season, and resources for wise investing.

The Agricultural Financial Services Corporation (AFSC) provides Alberta's farmers and agri-businesses with loans, crop insurance, and farm income disaster assistance. For more information on all the funding and insurance programs offered, please visit their website at afsc.ca

Fall presents an excellent opportunity to plant larger caliper trees on your property. Caliper trees are older trees, with a minimum trunk diameter of 4 cm, measured 15 cm above ground level. Larger caliper trees have a trunk diameter of 10 cm, measured 30 cm above ground level. In Alberta, spring often brings dry soil and low humidity. However, during fall tree planting, soil moisture is higher due to summer and autumn rains, providing an advantageous environment for root establishment in preparation for the upcoming spring.

Since the last report on August 23, 2023, rainfall has been highly variable, ranging from none across much of the northern and north-western Peace Region and throughout most of east-half of the Central and Southern Regions, to well over 20 mm along the western portions of the central and Southern Regions.  These areas have been dry and this is much needed moisture for struggling hay and pasture lands.  Notably, parts of the North West Region received less than 5 mm, which was welcome given the wet conditions that have persisted over the past few months.

Crop Report, provided by the Government of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, as of August 29, 2023.

Saddle Hills County is looking for members-at-large for the Agricultural Appeal Committee, Agricultural Services Board, Saddle Hills County Municipal Library Board, and the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board. 

Crop Report, provided by the Government of Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation, as of August 22, 2023.