The Forbes district has had more rain than average, but no records have been set – as growers now assess any damage to crops and plan their next course of action.
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The wet July has seen some crop losses and damage, particularly in flood courses and low lying areas, but according to Agriwest agronomist Guy Webb, some sunny days and warmer temperatures should see many crops pull through.
According to Bureau of Meteorology data at Forbes Airport, the area has received 64.2mm of rain this month, and although not a record, it is higher than the historical mean of 40.9mm for July.
Wyangala Dam was at 86.4 percent capacity as of Thursday – it had received 580,000 megalitres of inflow since the start of June, when it was at 38 percent.
Mr Webb said the rain has seen the region’s aquifers recharge and filled water profiles.
“With all the water in the dam now, the valley should have an irrigation allocation, which opens up all options for summer crops … including forage crops like sorghum, and sunflowers,” he said.
There has been less than favourable conditions for weed management in winter crops, which may need to be addressed after harvest.
Nitrogen could prove to be a major limiting factor on yield, the result of the water-logged soil, with growers looking to apply it as soon as possible to capitalise on the moisture profile.
According to Mr Webb, whilst the recent falls have brought some collateral damage, there has also been some positives, namely recharging the land.
