Sask. farmers plagued by scorching drought, destructive grasshoppers

Farmers and ranchers in southwestern Saskatchewan say they are seeing the worst drought in generations.

Farmers and ranchers in southwestern Saskatchewan say they are seeing the worst drought in generations. Like the roots in the dry ground, they are barely hanging on.

“I have not seen it this dry before,” Leader-area farmer Randy Schneider said.

The Schneider family has been farming in the area for four generations and say 2023 is a year like no other.

“There’s not enough moisture to keep [the crop] growing,” Schneider said.

Schneider said the year started with a lot of optimism as a significant amount of snow created plenty of moisture early on.

Early spring rainfall also made seeding season favourable and allowed for crops to quickly sprout.

However, due to an almost complete lack of moisture since, the dirt has turned hard, crumbly and dry. Crops are stunted and now turning brown.