Extreme weather conditions are hitting farmers hard across Western Canada. Low yields are expected for every crop because of an unusually cold winter and spring. Many parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Western Manitoba are facing the driest spring in 50 years, while eastern Manitoba has been hit by so much rain and flooding that crops have been put in the ground much later than normal.

Wheat crops are expected to yield 20 % less than last year and may reach the lowest level in 7 years. Oat production may drop more than 30% and canola may drop 15%. Delayed and lower crop yields also mean the costs for feed grains are also increasing.

Many Canadian Baptist churches minister in communities that depend on farming to thrive. During these difficult times, please remember farmers and farming communities in your prayers. Please pray, too, for our churches that they may minister to those in their midst and in their community whose livelihoods may be affected by this year’s difficult farming conditions.