Some Manitoba farmers attempt reseeding after storm damage

Manitoba farmers are exploring innovative solutions, including aerial reseeding, to salvage their crops after extensive flood damage from recent storms. Curtis McRae, a farmer in St. Andrews, Man., has hired a company to reseed his land using a plane, as his fields remain submerged and inaccessible to vehicles.

McRae expressed hope that the newly sown seeds will germinate with the upcoming rain forecast. "Ideally, we’re hoping to get more seeds on the ground, and with this rain forecast for tomorrow, hopefully that’s enough to make germination," he stated. He acknowledges the challenge, noting he might need until late November for crops to mature, a situation he calls "ridiculous" but is willing to try.

“

Ideally, we’re hoping to get more seeds on the ground, and with this rain forecast for tomorrow, hopefully that’s enough to make germination

David Phillips, senior climatologist at Environment & Climate Change Canada, suggests that the current season might extend longer, with temperatures potentially remaining high into the fall. "I think the summer is going to go longer, so it started later, you’re going to see another warm fall like we’ve had in the last two or three," Phillips said. This prediction offers a glimmer of hope for farmers like McRae.

However, agricultural organizations advise caution. Jill Verwey, president of Keystone Agricultural Producers, recommends farmers consult their crop insurance providers before reseeding. She highlighted the inherent risks, including the limited time for crops to mature and the potential for frost damage in late fall. Verwey emphasized the need to check coverage if the reseeding efforts ultimately fail.

“

I think the summer is going to go longer, so it started later, so you’re going to see another warm fall like we’ve had in the last two or three