Eastern Ontario farmers face major crop losses as July brings only 50% of normal rainfall. Dry conditions trigger water use warnings across the region.
Local Farmers Sound Alarm Over Crop Failures
A growing number of farmers in eastern Ontario are reporting significant crop losses as the region grapples with an extended dry spell. With July delivering only half of the historical average rainfall, fields are drying up and harvests are delayed or decimated.
Brandy Jackson, who operates Fly Creek Farm in North Augusta, Ont., said she’s had to abandon parts of her flower and vegetable crop. “It’s been a lot keeping everything alive,” she said at the Barrhaven Farmers’ Market over the weekend. “We’re forced to prioritize what we water, and let the rest go.”
July Sees Only Half the Normal Rainfall
Environment Canada confirmed that eastern Ontario received approximately 50% of its typical rainfall in July, based on two decades of historical data. The ongoing heat wave has worsened the situation, leaving many crops parched and unharvestable.
Farmers Delay Harvests and Cut Losses
Tomato farmer Dan Kristolaitis, owner of Still Growing Farm in Winchester, Ont., is facing a delayed harvest by nearly a month. He’s harvested just six pints of cherry tomatoes this season — far below his usual yield.
“As a farmer, you kind of roll with the punches,” Kristolaitis said at his Elgin Street Market stall. “But this season is definitely testing us.”
Eastern Ontario Declared “Abnormally Dry”
Agriculture Canada has classified parts of the region as “abnormally dry,” a level-zero rating on its drought severity scale. While not a full drought declaration, the warning reflects mounting concerns over soil moisture and crop viability.
Water Advisories Issued Across the Region
Municipalities and conservation authorities are now urging residents to conserve water. On August 1, South Nation Conservation issued a level-one low water advisory, signaling that streamflow and groundwater levels are below normal.
Carleton Place, Ont., which had been under a “red” alert for most of July, remains under a “yellow” or “conserve” advisory. Councillor Sarah Cavanagh encouraged residents to be cautious: “Any time there’s prolonged dry, hot weather, it’s important to think about how we use our water.”
Relief Unlikely in the Coming Week
Forecasts for eastern Ontario show little hope for immediate recovery. Only light, scattered showers are expected this week, with daytime highs continuing in the low 30s°C.
With no significant rain in sight, farmers and communities are bracing for more challenges in what’s already been a punishing summer for agriculture.
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