Quebec authorities are hopeful that rising water levels from heavy rainfall will begin to recede by midweek. Public Security Minister Martin Coiteux noted that flooding could peak today or tomorrow, and then ease off by Wednesday.As far as most crops in the province are concerned, no harm was done. “There’s no damage yet,” said Andrea Plant, General Manager of the Quebec Produce Growers Association. “We hope the rains will stop for the week and if that’s the case then by Wednesday or Thursday growers can go back in the field.” He estimates that the season will be late by about seven – 15 days compared to last year.
Wet and mushy fields
Conditions in the fields are wet and mushy. Plante said growers were able to get out in the field two or three weeks ago, for about one or two days a week to start. What’s already planted he says isn’t damaged. “The forecast for the week – especially in Montreal – is good.” The cold is also a factor to the delay. “It’s already May 8 and usually 2nd or 3rd week of May already we would harvest asparagus and radish but that won’t be the case this year.” Once harvest is ready Quebec will be supplying asparagus, radish, and leaf lettuce ready at the end of May early June.
Strawberry growers who grow under plastic are safe, he said, though depending on the region. “In the Montreal area there’s no problem but near Three Rivers, there’s fruit affected but most of the regions are in good shape now.”
Consumer benefits
The end result will benefit the consumer because Plante said a lot of produce will be arriving at the same time – including imports from the US. “That will put pressure on the price. Not good for the growers but good for the consumers,” said Plante.
For more information:
André Plante
Quebec Produce Growers Association
Ph: 514-387-8319
