Ontario farmers are becoming increasingly familiar with hazy skies as wildfire smoke drifts across the province.
While much of the public focus remains on human health and visibility, the agricultural impacts are also drawing attention as smoke affects crop development, livestock wellbeing, and outdoor work conditions.
For Ontario's corn crop, prolonged periods of heavy smoke during key growth stages could potentially reduce photosynthetic activity and limit yield potential.
Reduced photosynthesis may also lead plants to draw on stored carbohydrates later in the season, potentially increasing susceptibility to stalk weakness or lodging.