Drier conditions in autumn and early winter will affect crop estimates across South Australia, including the Lower Murray and Southern Murray Mallee areas according to the July PIRSA Crop and Pasture Report.
The estimate for the state’s 2018-19 grain harvest is now standing at 6.9 million tonnes, which is below the long-term average of 7.9m/t.
State Primary Industries Minister Tim Whetstone said in most areas soil moisture reserves were low to moderate with only Kangaroo Island and South East fairing well.
“While the report provides the first estimate of the season, it is important to note that South Australia’s grain crop will be highly dependent on the conditions in the coming months,” he said.
“In a number of districts, higher than normal mice numbers have eased with the unfavourable conditions and baiting to protect sown crops. Snail populations are being monitored with successful baiting to protect newly sown crops in affected districts.”
Source - https://www.murrayvalleystandard.com.au
