Harvest Update: A Season of Challenges and Faith
This year has been challenging for some farmers. Every area started with nearly ideal conditions for seeding and a great start but as the season progressed, it was marked by long stretches without rainfall, and an infestation of gophers in one area. These obstacles serve as a reminder that farming comes with both risks and rewards, and we deeply appreciate your willingness to stand with us in this effort. Grow Hope invites us all—farmers and supporters alike—to share in this experience, knowing that every step we take is part of the journey towards ensuring food security for all. Despite the challenges, some surprising blessings have emerged from the fields. Here are a few updates from our farmers:
The Hergotts near Bruno: Brian and Michelle Hergott’s canola crop brought in 48 bushels per acre—the highest of all their canola crops and a big surprise given the extended hot weather during key stages of crop development. Michelle, having experienced their best results in previous years on their Grow Hope field, expressed her faith in the outcome, saying, "I knew that would happen!"
The Sieberts, near Main Centre: Chaun and Sara Holfeld, along with a cadre of helpful neighbors, completed the harvest on Dan and Carol’s field early in the season but faced a disappointing outcome. The canola crop yielded less than 20 bu/ac due to receiving no rain after June 26th, very high temperatures, and destructive gophers. However, following the harvest, they received much-needed rainfall which provides hope for better conditions ahead.
The Janzens, near Rosthern: Wheat tends to be more tolerant to drought and hot temperatures and with the healthy start at the beginning of the year, Nathan and Jeanette pulled off a 60bu/ac crop. It’s not a bumper crop in their area for this type of crop, but it is surprising considering the conditions.
The Sonntags, near Meadow Lake: Ian, Reg and Patrick finished harvesting in good time – which is always a blessing if you’re farming in that area - however the hot summer also affected the outcome of their oat crop. 95 bu/ac is slightly low for oats these days but despite the extended period of hot temperatures, the kernels still developed to their full potential to meet optimum milling standards. This is an outcome to be content with considering less-than-usual rainfall.
Your support continues to make a profound difference in sharing the reward and risk, and we look forward to celebrating the harvest and its impact with you soon.