Bednarek is one of many Manitoba livestock farmers facing a devastating season due to drought. The latest drought monitor report suggests portions of Manitoba's Interlake, and some western and southern areas, are experiencing 'exceptional' droughts. (Drought Monitor Report/Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)Areas around Brandon, as well as communities straddling the Canada-U.S. border in southern Manitoba, are experiencing exceptional drought, the most severe rating in the agency's report. Another cattle producer in his 80s told Kiesman this drought is worse than the one in 1988, largely because at that time, farmers could drive somewhere nearby to buy feed. Manitoba offers online and telephone counselling for farmers and other people in rural areas who need someone to talk to.

Source: CBC News July 17, 2021 11:03 UTC