It's been a decent year so far for local producer and cattle farmer Ray Verwey.

Verwey and his family farm just south of Portage la Prairie. He explains in spite of the lack of rain, they haven't had to halt seeding operations.

"A nice couple of inches of rain would be good," says Verwey. "For the most part, most of the farmers around got their seed into the moisture. Maybe a little bit of canola is sitting in dry soil, but the farmers are doing a pretty good job with what they have."

Photo submitted by Jill VerweyVerwey notes if the rains don't come, it's not going to be good news for those in the cattle industry. He outlines the average price for a round bale of hay is between $60.00 to $100.00, a high price that could force cattle farmers out of operation.

"It just hurts when you have to pay that kind of money for feed, and there isn't much you can do about it," says Verwey.

Verwey adds, they did fertilize yesterday, so he's optimistic rain will come, and the grass and hay field will begin to grow. He reveals his cattle are out in the pastures, but he still has to feed.

Verwey outlines market prices and China are on the minds of most producers in our area; however, it is out of their control. He insists he is hopeful everyone has a great and safe seeding season and summer. He adds, he hopes everyone has a good time while they're at it.