Farmers looking at quick melt as unseasonable warmth spreads across prairies

Apr 11, 2023

With many areas looking at above-20-degree temperatures, farmers will see any remaining snowpack leave soon.

That's the consensus among weather forecasting services, which are forecasting a strong westerly flow across the prairies.

Alberta has been the odd province out as it's had less snow to keep things cold compared to Saskatchewan or Manitoba, but that's set to equal out soon.

The combined melting will be good for farmers, so long as more moisture isn't coming down, says Weatherlogics CEO Scott Kehler.

"I think with the way things are playing out now It's pretty good for farmers. They've got a decent snowpack so that will help get them some spring moisture. Then assuming that we don't get any significant rain events in April or May, it'll probably be fairly normal seeding dates in general, so looks like a better start to the year as opposed to last year, which was delayed in many areas."

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Video: Agriculture Secretary Rollins Speaks at American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim

One of the highlights at the 2026 American Farm Bureau Federation Convention in Anaheim, California, was an address by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins. During her remarks, she thanked America’s farmers and ranchers and said the Trump Administration is fully aware that food security is national security.

She also acknowledged the challenging times in Farm Country with low commodity prices and high input costs and said that’s why the President stepped in to help with the recent Bridge Assistance Program.

Montana Farm Bureau Federation Executive Vice President Scott Kulbeck says that Farm Bureau members are appreciative of the help and looks forward to working with the American Farm Bureau Federation and its presence in Washington, DC to keep farmers and ranchers in business.

Secretary Rollins said the Trump Administration is also committed to helping ranchers build back America’s cattle herd while also providing more high-quality U.S. beef at the meat case for consumers.

And she also announced more assistance for specialty crop producers who only received a fraction of the $12 billion Farmer Bridge Assistance (FBA).

It’s important to note that producers who qualify for Farmer Bridge Assistance can expect the Farm Service Agency to start issuing payments in late February. For more information, farmers and ranchers are encouraged to contact their local USDA Service Center.