BONNYVILLE - The MD of Bonnyville has declared a state of municipal agricultural disaster "due to drought," as of July 23.
With little rain falling this summer - and a lack of substantial precipitation in the two-week forecast - conditions have become dire for some farmers.
The MD of Bonnyville made the decision to declare a state of municipal agricultural disaster following recommendations from their General Manager of Environmental and Protective Services Matt Janz.
Janz conducted field inspections earlier in the week and found the quality of the canola crops will be "greatly reduced at harvest," according to information released by the MD of Bonnyville on Wednesday.
"He also indicated cereal crops will suffer if the municipality does not receive a significant amount of moisture in the next week or so. Janz said the northern portion of MD has been hit hardest by the lack of moisture this year," according to the information released by the municipality.
MD of Bonnyville Reeve Barry Kalinski spoke on the topic, stating, “There are many farmers in our area that would say we are already in an agricultural state of disaster."
He added, "Many farmers are having to feed extra because the pastures can’t sustain the cattle. We have farmers looking at selling animals because of it.”
Several other municipalities in Alberta have also declared stated of municipal agricultural disaster, including Cyprus County, Municipal District of Pincher Creek, Municipal District of Greenview, and the County of Grande Prairie.
More to come...
