Summer Field Updates
The rhythm of the land continues. Across Saskatchewan, Grow Hope farmers have been hard at work, sowing seeds of hope in soil that, at times, has tested their trust and patience. Like much of the province, the season began with early seeding and very dry conditions. But as we move into mid-summer, the fields tell a story of resilience, timing, and the quiet grace of rain at just the right moment.
Each Grow Hope field is unique. Every farmer faces different conditions, but all are connected by a shared commitment to growing something bigger than themselves. Here are some snapshots from the land.
Meadow Lake – The Sonntags (Oats)
Ian and the team near Meadow Lake got their earliest start ever this year, beginning seeding on April 28 and wrapping up by May 15. That kind of early activity is rare in this northern region. The soil was dry but timely rains in June gave the oat crop a good boost. As of late June, the crop is looking strong and healthy.
Bruno – The Hergotts (Hard Red Spring Wheat)
In Bruno, Brian Hergott reported a rough start to the season with little rain and variable conditions. Rainfall has been light, never more than four tenths of an inch at a time. Despite this, the wheat crop is holding on and showing signs of steady growth. In farming, sometimes average is a quiet victory.
Main Centre – The Sieberts (Durum Wheat)
Drone photos from June 25 show a bright, lush field of durum wheat. This was one of the later seeded fields, around May 6, but two back to back rainfalls in June brought a vibrant green to the land. There are a few low spots left unseeded due to excess moisture at planting time, and gophers remain a challenge. Still, this field is among the best looking of the season so far.
Langenburg – Aberhart Farms (Hard Red Spring Wheat)
At Aberhart Farms, a combination of winter snowfall and 1.7 inches of June rain created near perfect conditions. “These are the nicest crops we’ve seen,” was the word from the field. Photos taken June 26 show wheat plants with strong, bright green leaves and a healthy stand that promises a good harvest if weather continues to cooperate.
Rosthern – The Janzens (Canola)
Nathan and Jeanette Janzen seeded early on May 8 and completed all planting a week ahead of schedule. Like others, they were concerned about the early season dryness. But two gentle rainfalls in the last week of June have helped turn things around. The canola is now in the bolting stage, just beginning to flower. A photo captured a ladybug perched on a canola leaf, an encouraging sight. Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and a sign of healthy biological balance in the field.
These field updates are more than just weather reports. They reflect the persistence and faith of each farmer, and the ways in which this community continues to plant into uncertainty, believing in what can come.
“Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.”
2 Corinthians 9:6
The season is still unfolding and much can happen before harvest. But already, there is much to give thanks for. Thank you for being part of this growing story.