(Rural Roots Canada) – Cereal crops have fared better than others after early-season storms across Western Canada according to the Canadian Crop Hail Association.

The CCHA is currently reviewing approximately 1,000 crop damage claims from storms that blew through Alberta and Saskatchewan between June 23 and July 1. In contrast, Manitoba reported no claims during that period.

Scott McQueen, CCHA Chairman and representative of Palliser Insurance, says cereal crops have shown to be more resilient than other crops.

“Cereals have generally fared better as many were hit in the grassy stages of development,” says McQueen. “The minimal damage to the plant, combined with favourable environmental conditions, has allowed these crops to recover from hail impact.”

Regional Breakdown of Storm Damage

Alberta:

• Crops Damaged: Barley, canola, chickpeas, corn, dry beans, lentils, mixed grain, oats, peas, sugar beets, wheat.
• Communities Impacted: Stirling, Foremost, Cayley, Nanton, Vulcan, Airdrie, Crossfield, Carstairs, Didsbury, Barrhead, Three Hills.

Saskatchewan:

• Crops Damaged: Wheat, canola, barley, oats, flax, mustard, soybeans, cereals, oil seeds, pulses.
• Communities Impacted: Arborfield, Carrot River, Glen Ewen, Oxbow, Alameda, Carnduff, Melville, North Portal, Lampman, Meyronne, Gravelbourg, Rockglen, Rosetown, Swift Current.

You can visit the Canadian Crop Hail Association website for more information and past reports.

COMPARE TO LAST WEEK’S REPORT: Hail Report: Crop Damage Claims Reach 1,500 for June 17-23