Saddle Hills County has declared an agricultural disaster, citing severe drought and forecasted extended dry conditions.
According to county officials, the decision was made on July 22nd with the precipitation and soil moisture reserves across the Peace Region ranging from ‘low’ to ‘extremely low’.
According to the county’s announcement, “All local grain elevators report dry or very dry conditions and warn that the area needs more precipitation heading into grain fill or yields are likely to further decline.”
The decision comes at a critical stage in the growing season, with yields expected to be lower than the five or 10-year average and crop conditions described as marginal.
“Many of our producers face tough decisions on the future of their operations in the months ahead, and we are increasingly concerned for both their livelihoods and the mental health impacts they may face,” the statement reads.
Saddle Hills County is one of several municipalities in not only the province but across Western Canada who has declared an agriculture disaster. The county is urging both the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada to understand the seriousness of the situation and take the necessary steps to ensure producers are receiving the support they require.
