Agriculture and Food Minister Kim Chance has activated the State Government's Dry Seasons Advisory Committee, as the State records its driest start to winter on record.
Agriculture and Food Minister Kim Chance has activated the State Government's Dry Seasons Advisory Committee, as the State records its driest start to winter on record.
The Department of Agriculture and Food's Seasonal Update forecasts Western Australia's expected grain production for the year could be between seven and 10 million tonnes (MT) compared to 'normal' production of around 13 to 14MT.
"This early forecast certainly presents a grim picture, but final production figures will not be known for some time and will be strongly influenced by late winter and spring rain," Mr Chance said.
The Northern agriculture region, which normally produces around 30 per cent of the State's grain, will be affected the most.
"Production estimates for parts of the Central and Eastern Wheatbelt remain reasonable, with 60 per cent of normal production anticipated," the Minister said.
"In contrast, the south coast is experiencing a good season and is on track to produce close to its normal production of grain."
Grain prices have firmed since the start of the year, reducing the financial scale of the lost opportunity. However, on current forecast production, total grain crop value could still be down on budget by more than $500million.
The outlook for wheat yields is low across many Wheatbelt shires, even if an average finish to the season is experienced.
"The decision to activate the dry seasons advisory committee is part of an integrated package of measures to ensure farmers have the best possible support during what is clearly going to be a difficult season," Mr Chance said.
"The committee will be chaired by Dexter Davies and will include representatives from the Western Australian Farmers Federation, the Pastoralists and Graziers Association, the Agriculture Consulting Sector, Rural Business Development Corporation and
WA Local Government Association, as well as the Department of Agriculture and Food and my office."
The dry seasons advisory committee last operated in the 2000-02 dry seasons.
"I would emphasise that we are not dealing with a drought here, but dry seasons still pose challenges that reach across not only the agricultural sector but into rural communities in general, with potential business and social impacts," the Minister said.
Mr Davies said the wide range of industry input would enable the committee to offer practical advice during the dry season.
"Good preparation and quality advice are the keys to dealing with this situation in the best way possible," Mr Davies said.
The latest seasonal update indicates an area north of the Great Eastern Highway is likely to be most affected by the dry conditions. But the shortage of feed for livestock means the impact will be felt across other parts of the State.
"The committee will assess all the information available and advise on the best responses," Mr Davies said.
The Department of Agriculture and Food is developing an integrated package of technical information to assist growers in making decisions about how to manage their program for the year ahead.
"Seasonal conditions like this demand a careful and well-planned approach - it is vital that decision-makers on the land ensure they are getting good advice from experienced sources," Mr Chance said.
