Hot and dry conditions across the province over the past week have significantly accelerated the pace of harvest, pushing major crop progress well ahead of seasonal averages.
According to the latest Alberta Crop Report, 22% of major crops have now been harvested province-wide — a 14-point jump from the previous week. The current pace is ahead of both the 5-year average of 21% and the 10-year average of 17% for this time of year.
The Peace Region saw especially strong gains, with harvest progress almost tripling from 7% last week to 20% this week. That also places the region well ahead of its 5-year and 10-year averages of 10%.
Among individual crops, Dry Peas continue to lead the way at 49% harvested. Barley follows at 33%, with Spring Wheat at 28% and Oats at 21%. Canola is progressing, now at 6% harvested so far.
While the weather has helped boost harvest activity, it has also reduced soil moisture conditions. Sub-surface soil moisture levels in the Peace Region are now at 11% rate Poor, 53% Fair, and 37% Good. No areas are currently rated as Excellent or Excessive.
Keith Hopper, Trending 55
