Potato growers in Prince Edward Island are facing one of the driest summers in recent history, causing significant concerns about crop yields. Andrew Lawless, who operates Hilltop Produce in Kinkora, has been diligently using his irrigation system since July to water 40% of his crop weekly. Despite his efforts, Lawless anticipates a 30% reduction in his usual yield due to the prolonged dry spell.
According to Greg Donald, the general manager of the P.E.I. Potato Board, farmers across the province are expressing worry over this year’s crop as they battle the adverse effects of the scarce rainfall. The dry conditions are not unique to P.E.I., with many regions in North America, particularly the northeastern U.S. and Canada, experiencing below-average precipitation levels.
The P.E.I. Potato Board’s research team, through regular sampling, has observed that the potato crops are falling below the five-year average growth rate. Donald highlighted that the lack of moisture has hindered the development of even drought-resistant varieties, leading to concerns about the overall harvest output.
The financial implications of the drought are significant, with potato cultivation costs exceeding $5,000 per acre. Donald warned that failure to recoup these expenses could spell trouble for farmers. Looking ahead, the forecast indicates continued high temperatures with minimal rain in the next two weeks, further dimming hopes for a successful harvest.
While only 10% of potato acreage on P.E.I. is irrigated, the impact of irrigation during dry years is substantial. Lawless emphasized the importance of irrigation on his farm, noting the stark difference in crop health between irrigated and non-irrigated fields during the crucial bulking stage of potato growth.
Lawless emphasized the significance of investing in advanced farming techniques to adapt to changing climate patterns, expressing his commitment to expanding irrigation capabilities on his farm to mitigate future risks. He stressed the need for continuous innovation in agricultural practices to navigate the challenges posed by evolving climatic conditions.
