AAFC Develops New Drought Outlook Tool

Jun 28, 2021

Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s (AAFC) new Drought Outlook tool predicts drought conditions 30-days into the future.

The tool was developed by AAFC Agroclimate Specialists Trevor Hadwen, Marilee Pregitzer, Dr. Catherine Champagne, Calvin Poff, and Richard Warren.

"We've linked our current conditions, the Canadian Drought Monitor, to the Environment Canada forecast," said Hadwen. "We've tried to link the current conditions of drought to that forecast by using a machine-based learning model that helps develop drought indices into the future and predicts the classification of drought in 30 days."

The Drought Outlook:

- Is the first tool of its kind in Canada for predicting future regional drought conditions.
- Forecasts 30 days into the future based on AAFC’s current monthly Canadian Drought Monitor assessment in combination with ECCC precipitation and temperature forecasts.

Forecasts will be made available through the national Drought Early Warning System (DEWS) for the purposes of informing producers and policy developers.

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Video: Fendt Testimonial | Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 | Peter Watson Jones Ltd.

What happens when a farm buys its first Fendt? For Peter Watson Jones Ltd, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 has exceeded expectations from day one. For Jack, Farm Manager at Peter Watson Jones Ltd in North Shropshire, UK, the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7 wasn't just another tractor purchase. It was the farm's first experience with the Fendt brand.

Operating across a 1,200-acre arable farm alongside a 250,000-head broiler enterprise, the business has evolved significantly over the last decade, moving to a straight arable system with fewer staff and machines. Since arriving on the farm, the Fendt 726 Vario has established itself as the main drilling and cultivations tractor, earning its place through performance, versatility and efficiency. Whether it's handling large-scale cultivations or working with a new 4.5m strip-till drill, the tractor continues to impress.

Jack highlights its excellent manoeuvrability, operator comfort and ability to deliver strong pulling power at low engine speeds. The result? Outstanding fuel efficiency without compromising performance. Reliability has also been a key factor, with dependable backup from the team at TR Machinery helping to keep the tractor working when it matters most.

?? Watch as Jack shares why the Fendt 726 Vario Gen7, the farm's first Fendt, has made such a strong impression and become an integral part of their operation.