Hailstorm havoc in central mainland

The severe hailstorm that hit inland parts of Canterbury yesterday damaged a large area of the region’s wheat and vegetable crops, causing hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage.

“The marble to golf ball sized hail stones swept across the middle of the South Island, puncturing baleage and destroying delicate wheat, barley and vegetable crops,” says David Clark, Federated Farmers Mid Canterbury Grain and Seed chairperson.

“The storm carved a path of destruction from Darfield to Temuka, with heavy damage to radish, carrot, pea and clover crops. These vegetable crops are hardy though and should stand a good chance of recovery.

“Some farmers in the area may potentially face crop losses in access $100,000 as a result of hail damage. The financial implications for each farm affected by the hailstorm is likely to range from a recoverable loss to a loss of about 40 to 50 percent of their crop.

“It appears the heaviest hail stones fell near Temuka in South Canterbury and in the Methven and Mayfield areas of Mid Canterbury. Some farmers in these areas would have suffered very heavy damage. On top of this, baleage around the region has been punctured and will need to be rewrapped at some cost.

“The last time we experienced a hailstorm of this magnitude was back in January, when a freak mid-summer storm wiped out more than $1 million worth of crops in the North Canterbury area. However, you can’t compare that storm to yesterday’s downpour, as January’s hailstorm affected a different growing area.

“Many growers may be able to recover some of their costs of production through United Wheat Growers Insurance Scheme, while others will have private insurance.

“Those with private insurance should contact their insurer immediately to let them know of any damage. Meanwhile, grain and seed firm representatives can discuss a fungicide regime to reduce the chances of a secondary fungus outbreak as well as to help promote quick recovery.

“Farmers are welcome to contact their local Federated Farmers provincial president or grain and seed chairperson who may be able to offer advice and in some cases, assistance.

“In the meantime, wheat growers with damaged crops must contact FMG to have the damage assessed. We also recommend farmers keep their bank in the loop over any potential lost income,” Mr Clark concluded.