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Peat producers looking for break in weather

September 20, 2013  By Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association


Sept. 20, 2013, St. Albert, Alberta — Peat producers are hoping for a
break in the weather this fall, as conditions so far this year have led
to lower than anticipated harvests.

Sept. 20, 2013, St. Albert, Alberta — Peat producers are hoping for a break in the weather this fall, as conditions so far this year have led to lower than anticipated harvests.

In Eastern Canada (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island), the industry is considerably below average in its expected harvest volumes. A late and interrupted start to the harvest season combined with a wet, late summer has significantly restricted production.

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In Québec’s North Shore, the production has been at or slightly above expectations. However, due to weather-related harvest challenges, the harvest on Québec’s South Shore is below average.

In the Prairie provinces, Alberta has experienced a below average to well below average harvest level primarily due to adverse weather. However, this may be adjusted slightly due to favourable weather conditions the first part of September.

Manitoba and Saskatchewan have experienced varied harvest weather conditions; however, an average level of production has been achieved in these provinces.

Further adjustments to this Aug. 31 forecast will depend on the fall harvest season, particularly in Alberta.

It should be noted that the industry had carryover inventory volumes from the previous harvest season. In Eastern Canada, these volumes will help offset the reduced harvest. In the West, the carryover inventory was less. This will have a smaller positive impact on the overall supply.

As in the past, Canadian Sphagnum Peat Moss Association (CSPMA) members, who represent 95 per cent of the North American production, are committed to working cooperatively with their commercial business partners to ensure that supply matches the demand.


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