Alberta farms saw crop yields 10% higher than the five-year average for the 2022 growing season, according to a provincial government crop report. .“Alberta’s producers have faced a number of challenges over the years, but through their hard work and dedication, continue to show the immense value of the agriculture sector and the contributions this industry makes to our economy and communities,” said Alberta Agriculture and Irrigation Minister Nate Horner in a Thursday press release. .The report said quality for hard red spring wheat, canola, and dry peas were above their five-year averages, while durum wheat and oats were lower. It said quality for malt and feed barley was on par with the five-year average..Favourable conditions saw Alberta farmers be two to three weeks ahead in harvest progress for their second year in a row. .The report went on to say agriculture has contributed to Alberta’s economic success and identity for more than one century. It added the international community is looking to Alberta to feed people as global events threaten supply chains and food security. .The report said soil moisture reserves declined because of dry conditions in the summer and fall. Surface soil moisture was rated as 40% poor, 32% fair, 27% good, and 1% excellent on Oct. 11. .It's anticipated soil moisture reserves and surface water supplies will build up to a suitable level before the 2023 farming season..The Alberta government said the Agriculture Financial Services Corporation will continue to provide business risk management tools to producers facing adverse conditions..The Alberta and Saskatchewan governments condemned Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for his fertilizer emission reduction targets for farmers in July. .READ MORE: Saskatchewan, Alberta governments express disappointment in fertilizer emission reductions.“The world is looking for Canada to increase production and be a solution to global food shortages,” said Horner. .“The federal government needs to display that they understand this.”
