Despite the dry conditions this spring, it has yet to come to that, although farmers in eastern Alberta, especially are beginning to feel the effects of little or no rain. John Knapp, director of program services with Alberta Agricuture said drought conditions cover the entire province. The effects of the dry spring have resulted in livestock producers running out of water, pastures which aren't growing well and lack of soil moisture which could result in decreased crop production.
Different crops respond to moisture deficit better than others.
Knapp said there are several programs in place to help farmers who will face financial problems due to the drought. The Farm Income Disaster Program takes the farmer's average income over several previous years and determines a reference margin. The farm income in the existing year is considered and if that income falls below 70 per cent of the reference margin it triggers payment which will bring the farmer's total income up to 70 per cent of his average as determined. We are continuing to monitor the drought situation and depending on whether it worsens or not, we will be reviewing additional options. Jim Smith, who has farmed near Eckville for about 20 years and grows barley, canola, oats, wheat and hay crops and sells seed grain said the lack of moisture hasn't adversely affected planting too much in this area.