Canola Growers Feeling The Impact Of Dry Spring

The dry spring has been challenging for a variety of producers, particularly canola growers. Karen Sowers with the Pacific Northwest Canola Association said winter canola is actually looking pretty good, including in Oregon’s Wilamette Valley.

“Spring canola is all over the board from looking very good in the draws depending on seeding depth an date. They seem to make all the difference this year. Even fields side by side planted a day or two earlier, it’s a huge difference.”

Sowers added canola planted in Northeastern Washington is not looking as good right now. And despite the growing challenges, Sowers says the interest continues to grow for this very beneficial rotational crop.

“I think we will be seeing more growers because they’re watching their neighbors and the market is a big part of it. It’s a very profitable crop right now despite lower yields. I think we will see new canola growers added to the list. Some will drop off, but I think that we’ll at least be even, if not up.” 

Sowers said canola as a rotational crop also benefits the soil. To learn more about canola, and to find out if it’s a good fit for your operation, Click Here. ​

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekmedia.com