Warmer and Drier Than Normal Conditions Expected in December

 

The latest monthly outlook for December 2020 is now out from NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center. It shows that all of the Southeast is expected to be warmer than normal and that most of the region is also likely to be drier than normal. This is consistent with our expectation of the continuing strong La Nina which is now affecting us. This general climate pattern is likely to persist over the winter, although there will be colder outbreaks from time to time, since after all, it will be winter.

 

 

Video: Sclerotinia and Lygus in Seed Canola: Field Update with George Lubberts, CCA | Enchant, Alberta

Join Certified Crop Advisor George Lubberts for this Prairie Certified Crop Advisor (Prairie CCA) field update from Enchant, Alberta. In this 12th video of the series, George takes us into a seed canola field where the male rows have been removed and the female plants are filling pods. This video was taken in the third week of August 2025.

George discusses the early signs of sclerotinia stem rot, explaining how infection begins in the stem, impacts pod development, and leads to premature ripening. He also shares insights on lygus bug management, including timing of spray applications to minimize feeding damage and maintain seed size and quality.

With cool, damp summer conditions, George notes that while disease pressure is present, overall field health remains good. The crop is just beginning to show early seed colour change, signaling progress toward maturity.

Topics Covered:

•Sclerotinia stem rot identification and impact

•Managing lygus bugs in seed canola

•Crop stage and seed colour change observations

•Timing insecticide sprays for optimal protection

•Insights from a CCA field perspective in southern Alberta