Prairie Farmers Struggle with Record-High Diesel Prices and Fertilizer Shortages
CALGARY - Prairie farmers are facing a particularly challenging harvest season due to various factors. A wet spring delayed seeding in many areas, and recent rainy conditions have hindered the harvesting process.
Vice-president of the Wheat Growers Association, Stephen Vandervalk, noted that much of the summer was dry but that rain at this time is not ideal. 'It would have been a lot nicer to have that six weeks ago,' he said.
The Canadian Canola Growers Association's Rick White stated that farmers are struggling with mud while trying to access their fields. The shortening days, reduced sunlight, and cooler temperatures have made it difficult for the crops to dry out after rainfall.
Farmers are also dealing with increased costs due to the global crude oil market disruptions caused by the war in the Middle East. Ukrainian strikes on Russian energy infrastructure have further limited supplies, resulting in higher diesel prices. The Canadian average retail price of diesel was over $2.75 a litre last week, a significant increase from around $1.50 at this time last year.
The federal government has been urged to consider offering a targeted and temporary rebate on fuel to alleviate some of the financial burden on farmers. However, the industry is also concerned about disrupted fertilizer supplies due to the conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East.