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SA reports a record $3.2 billion harvest

Despite challenging growing conditions, South Australia’s 2021-22 harvest has returned a record high $3.2 billion farm gate value and above-average crop production.

That’s according to the state government’s latest Crop and Pasture Report, which reveals many crops yielded better than expected after fluctuating conditions during the growing season.

“South Australia’s crop production is now estimated to be at 8.32 million tonnes from 3.9 million hectares, which is far above the 10-year average of 7.73 million tonnes,” said Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development David Basham.

“As global grain prices remain high, the estimated farm gate value remains at a record high $3.2 billion which is fantastic news for growers, the state’s economy and most importantly local jobs.

“Back at home, while growing conditions fluctuated during the season, presenting many challenges, crops performed better than expected. Across the board, harvest outcomes have far exceeded expectations to be above the 10-year production average with the exception of the Mallee region.”

Basham adds that GM canola also performed very well in its first year of production in SA.  GM canola tonnage was at around 10 per cent of the total canola production in SA.

“The Far West and northern parts of Western Eyre Peninsula and parts of the Upper and Mid North of the state had the highest November rains on record,” he said.

“Most of the state finished harvest by end of December, with some areas still harvesting in January, following delays caused by the cool, rainy weather in October and November.”

“Livestock are generally in good or excellent condition across the state, and farmers have been taking advantage of high prices to reduce their stock numbers and reduce grazing pressure.”

Though Basham added that heavy rains in late January, which caused significant damage on the Eyre Peninsula and pastoral regions to farms, roads and rail, occurred outside of the reporting period.

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