Your berry harvest might get weird this year
Morning from the Automobile City — here's what's growing in Steinbach. And what's maybe *not* growing so well this year, based on what I’m hearing from our berry producers across the Southeast. We're on the cusp of prime berry-picking season, and normally, this is a banner time for families heading out on Highway 12, past the big Loewen Windows plant, to pick saskatoons and strawberries. But this year? Not so much a banner, more like a question mark.
It seems the wild weather we've had – that late spring and then all the heavy rains – is really making our local producers "play it by ear." Imagine putting all that work in, seeing your fields, and then having to just *wait* to see what actually fruits. It's a huge gamble for these folks, and it highlights how connected our food supply is to the skies above us. It’s not just about the big crops, but even those small, joyful harvests that families rely on for summer jams and pies.
### What This Means for Your Summer Plans
For Steinbach residents, this isn't just a farmer's problem. It affects your family traditions and your grocery budget.
* **Picking Season Uncertainty:** Don't just assume your favorite U-pick spot near La Broquerie or Grunthal will have a full bounty. Call ahead! * **Market Prices:** If the local supply is down, expect to see higher prices at places like the Steinbach Farmers' Market or our local grocery stores. * **Support Local:** Now more than ever, it’s crucial to support our regional producers. They're facing real challenges, and every purchase helps.
This kind of uncertainty is tough, especially when we’re so used to the abundance of our rich agricultural land here in Southern Manitoba. It’s a good reminder that even with all our growth and new businesses on Main Street, we're still deeply connected to the rhythm of the seasons.
Lena Brandt, MiTL Sports Desk, Steinbach.
Tune in to the Morning Wire crew — they’re always on top of these local stories at mornings.live.