Rainfall was welcomed by local producers at the end of June as highlighted by the Crop Report from the Ministry of Agriculture.
The rainfall along with cooler temperatures aided the crops which experienced an abnormal dry spring.
Crops remained patchy and uneven leading to varied crop stages due to the poor spring moisture conditions.
Between June 17-23, the Bruno region led the area in terms of rainfall with 40 mm. Other locations reporting heavy rainfall.
Topsoil moisture ratings for the region improved following the rain. Cropland topsoil moisture ratings are now three per cent surplus, 54 per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and five per cent very short. Hayland is rated as 52 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Finally, pasture land is rated as 48 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and twelve per cent very short. Hopefully more rain will be received in the coming weeks to help improve soil moisture.
Even with the dry start to the season, crops are still largely rated to be in their normal development stages for this time of year. Crop conditions range from poor to good, and without more rain, crops will quickly deteriorate and lose yield potential.
Heat, windy and dry conditions caused minor to moderate crop damage. Some hailstorms were also reported in the region with damage varying from minor to severe.