Low soil moisture and a dry Spring in some areas of Saskatchewan mean this year’s hay crop is looking a little rough.

Dr Paul Jefferson, a Forage Research Consultant, says everything is lining up for a below average and variable hay yield across the Province.

“The average yield across the Province is what we’re trying to predict based on historical records and weather records. I know that in areas around Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Regina right up through Rosetown and even into Saskatoon area they’ve been very dry this Spring. So those areas will be much below normal in terms of hay yields this year based on the weather.”

Jefferson stresses he’s talking about area averages.

Below average hay yields are also expected from Kindersley through Lloydminster, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Saskatoon and Wynyard.

“There are pockets where it looks like the yield could be close to average. Those areas are around Meadow Lake, Yorkton, Estevan places that did get some extra moisture here in June. Broadview is looking good in that area. The Eastern side is looking like it could be ok and surprisingly Maple Creek. I’m not sure if that (Maple Creek) is an anomaly or if it’s just the effect of the Cypress Hills that’s resulted in just a bit more rainfall. “

Based on the data, Jefferson expects the 2018 provincial hay average to be about 1.11 tons per acre or 85% of the long-term average of 1.35 tons per acre.

He says overall it depends on whether the crop got some of those localized thundershowers over the last few weeks, as well as the soil type and how you managed your hay crop in the past.

Jefferson suggests producers start looking at making arrangements now for crop residues, which can replace hay in wintering beef cow rations with appropriate supplementation.