Farmer Bruce Badman (left) in his canola crop with Cox Rural agronomist James Heffernan. The canola is expected to reach heights of at least six feet before it is harvested in December.
FARMERS are mostly a pretty optimistic bunch, and this spring they have plenty to smile about.
With high yields and good grain prices, local farmers are feeling happy about the prospects for their crops this year.
Cox Rural agronomist James Heffernan said it was a rarity to have both a good yield and a good price at the same time.
"We're only two weeks into spring but things are looking excellent," he observed.
After a very cold winter and a dry start to the year, crops went in quite late which was worrying; however, recent rains have left plenty of moisture in the soil.
Third generation farmer Bruce Badman grows canola, wheat, barley, oats, linseed, peas and lucerne seed on his farm South Waverly.
He is expecting to get more than three tonnes to the hectare for his canola in the Koppamurra region.
"We just need a few more rain events in October," he said. "That is what we missed out on last year."
The heavy rains last week did not have an impact on the crops which have now dried out quickly thanks to the last few sunny days.
"We were just starting to get some wet patches in all of the crops but that is changing now," Mr Badman said.
Mr Heffernan agreed and said there were a few waterlogging issues in low lying country but nothing of significance.
"Last year was not as good as it was too dry but we have had an excellent amount of moisture this year," he said. "We just need a kind spring."
Cereal crops are now coming into fungicide season which is being closely monitored by farmers and agronomists in the SE.
"We would expect to see early signs of disease in susceptable varieties," Mr Heffernan said. "But a healthy crop should not have too many problems if the nutrition and pest control is right."
Livestock farming is also looking promising with pastures finally growing as the weather starts to warm up.
"It is looking to be a good year," Mr Heffernan said.