BC’s mild temperatures this winter has also occurred in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, where the bulk of the agronomic and turfgrass seed is produced. Temperatures (degree day numbers) were above historical averages for January. The lack of freezing weather has allowed vole populations to thrive, along with insects and slugs. Vole crop damage in 2020 has been catastrophic in many fields and numerous farmers predict the problem will be even worse in 2021. Farmers continue to consider switching out of grass seed production to other crops like nursery stock and hazelnuts.
Perennial Ryegrass seed is in particularly short supply, and some varieties will no longer be available once current supplies run out. Other species that are used as a substitute for turf-type Perennial Ryegrass are also experiencing stronger pricing as demand increases. As a result, look for generally stronger prices in 2021.