EYRE Peninsula farmers knew it would be a tough year on their crops, with below average rainfall and a late start to the season.
Although conditions have been less than favourable, EP CropSmart sales agronomist Daniel Bowey said yields were only just below average.
“The past five years we have been above average, some areas have been exceptional,” he said.
“This year has brought us down to the average or a fraction below, which is due to the late start.”
Mr Bowey said generally farmers were not disappointed with their crops, having been realistic with their expectations.
Rainfall across the state has varied, with Buckleboo receiving 22 millimetres, while in the Murraylands, Tailem Bend had 66mm.
In the North East, Boolcoomatta received 94mm, while Stansbury on the Yorke Peninsula recorded a total of 39mm.
Mr Bowey said the recent rain had been annoying and brought the EP to a halt.
“Normally we would be finished in the first week or two in December, but it looks like there will be quite a few farmers going right up until Christmas,” he said.
“It’s just going to be a below average and long harvest.”
While the EP is behind in harvest, farmers in the Mallee and Mid North are close to finishing, if not already finished.
Rural Directions agribusiness consultant Richard Saunders said it was important for farmers to start summer weed control.
“There’s quite good summer moisture established (and) that’s the race at the moment to control weeds,” he said.