Map: Ontario and Quebec Have Swung from Dry to Wet

Jul 12, 2023

After an abnormally dry spring, Ontario and Quebec have received significant precipitation over the past 30 days. Although the rain was welcome when it began in early June, some farmers are now wondering if they are getting too much of a good thing!

As can be seen on the map below, almost all the major cropping regions of Ontario and Quebec have received above-average rainfall over the past 30 days. Some areas around Windsor, north of Toronto and around Montreal have gotten twice as much rain as normal.

Although the precipitation has helped to recharge soil moisture levels, it has already created some concern about fungal diseases in soybeans, according to last week’s crop update from OMAFRA. There are reports of some fields of corn and wheat getting excessive rain as well.

For farmers watching their winter wheat ripen, a window of drier weather for harvest would be welcome soon. That currently seems unlikely though, with the 14-day weather forecast allowing for regular rains.

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Video: Grazing Network Group: What it is and how it benefits our operation

In the spring of 2023 OMAFA, along with the University of Guelph, gathered a group of 18 producers from the beef, sheep, and dairy sectors to support a three to four year research project related to measuring grass growth in Ontario. The producers use a Rising Plate Meter to capture grass growth and record livestock movements. This presentation will explain how the group interact/support one another, some initial findings, as well as the benefits for the research team and our farm.

The purpose of the Profitable Pastures conference is to bring fresh ideas and new research results to Ontario grazing managers across the ruminant livestock sectors. These conferences have a major focus on pasture management