Harvest delayed across the Prairies as farmers deal with waterlogged fields

Heavy rainfall across the Prairie provinces has led to delayed harvests for grain farmers this summer. Saskatchewan is experiencing the greatest delays, with only 32% of the crop in the bin compared to the five-year average of 71%. Farmers are finding it difficult to dry crops enough to operate combines, and many are still harvesting in late September. The province received about 8 inches of rain since the end of August, which is not typical but not unprecedented either.

Alberta is lagging as well, with only 21% of crops harvested as of September 8, compared to the five-year average of 43.5%. Rainy weekends are continuing to slow progress, and cool temperatures may keep combines idle for several days. Southern Alberta is closer to the average, with 40% of the harvest completed, six percent behind schedule.

Manitoba's southwestern and northwestern regions are below the 40% average for all crops, at 27% and 19% completion respectively. Eastern Manitoba's Interlake fields saw rainfall ranging from five to 47 millimeters last week, prompting hopes for sunny and windy weather to help farmers dry fields and resume harvest. However, tile drainage, which could help manage wet conditions, is expensive at $1,800 to $2,000 per acre and may take years to pay off.

Soil compaction is another concern, as wet conditions can cause long-term damage to fields. Farmers and experts agree that constant high water levels will negatively impact yields.