REGINA – Dry conditions are affecting farmers and livestock producers across Saskatchewan. On Thursday, the provincial and federal governments announced additional measures to help producers dealing with the dry conditions.
Adjustments have been made to crop insurance, with the deadline for seeding greenfeed crops extended to July 15. Producers with crop insurance will now be able to seed and insure any cereal greenfeed crop.
They are also offering farmers the option to use their crop acres for livestock grazing or feed instead.
“The lack of moisture through the spring and so far this growing season has severely reduced the hay and forage crops in many parts of the province,” said Saskatchewan Agriculture Minister Lyle Stewart.
“By being flexible with existing programs, we are hoping to help producers source the feed they need for their livestock.”
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The pasture program is at capacity, so the Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture is asking any organization with conservation land to open them for grazing. In addition, the ministry will now allow the sub-leasing of Crown lease land.
Producers are also being encouraged to access the feed grain and forage listing service that will connect buyers and sellers of feed grains, forages and other agriculture-related services.
Crop insurance customers also have coverage if annual crops suffer due to the dry conditions. Producers can register a pre-harvest claim if they do not want to carry a crop through to harvest.
Producers dealing with dry conditions are being asked to contact their local crop insurance office to review options available for claims, compensation and the requirements for the options they choose.
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