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Crop report for the period of Sept. 27 – Oct. 3, 2022

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Crop report for the period of Sept. 27 – Oct. 3, 2022

MINISTRY OF AGRICULTURE
SUBMITTED

The weather over the past week was excellent for harvest. The province now has 90 per cent of the crop in the bin, up from 81 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year average of 82 per cent. Some producers have been struggling with heavy fog and dew in the mornings that has delayed their harvest activities until the afternoon, making for short days and less progress. High humidity in many parts of the southeast, east-central and northeast is making it difficult to combine and has also led to grain coming off at higher amounts of moisture than normal. Producers must dry down the grain in order to store it properly.

Harvest in the southwest and west-central regions is virtually complete with mostly flax waiting to be harvested, which will likely occur after the next heavy killing frost. The northwest has 94 per cent of their crop off, the northeast 87 per cent, the southeast 86 per cent and the east central 81 per cent.

The harvest of lentils and field peas has finished. Ninety-eight per cent of the durum, 97 per cent of the chickpeas, 93 per cent of the spring wheat, 90 per cent of the barley, 82 per cent of canola and 66 per cent of the flax has been combined across the province.

Once again, there was very little rain this past week, with only trace amounts being recorded for most regions. Some parts of the southwest received two to three mm but it did very little to improve soil moisture conditions. All areas of the province are reporting that they are either extremely dry or becoming drier each week. This includes the southeast and east-central regions, which started the season with an abundance of moisture.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 28 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and 31 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 22 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and 37 per cent very short.

Limited moisture throughout much of the harvest season has allowed crop quality to remain high, especially Hard Red Spring Wheat which is being reported as 75 percent 1CW, 23 per cent 2CW and two per cent 3CW. The ten-year average for Hard Red Spring Wheat is 39 per cent 1CW, 35 per cent 2CW, 17 per cent 3CW and nine per cent 4CW/feed.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, waterfowl and wildlife. Wind continues to impact unharvested crops by blowing swaths around, as well as shelling out crops and causing lodging.

Producers are busy combining, hauling grain and bales and moving cattle. Some producers are also starting other fall field work, such as post-harvest weed control and harrowing. Winter cereals are not able to be planted in many areas due to the lack of soil moisture. Fall fertilizer applications are also not possible in many regions due to these dry conditions.

Northeastern Saskatchewan

Another week of good weather has allowed for great progress to be made across the region; many more producers have finished their harvest operations while others are very close to being done. Producers in the region have 87 per cent of the crop in the bin, well ahead of the five-year average of 75 per cent for this time of year. Producers were very nervous about a potentially long harvest, but thankfully, the weather has cooperated and they were able to get large amounts of their crop off without experiencing large losses due to frost or an early snowfall.

Like the rest of the province, very little precipitation was received and while that helped harvest progress it has also caused topsoil moisture to decline. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 63 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and one per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 55 per cent adequate, 44 per cent short and one per cent very short.

Yield estimates across the region appear to be very good and many producers are extremely happy with what they are seeing go into their bins. Hard red spring wheat is yielding 55 bu/ac, oats 113 bu/ac, barley 81 bu/ac, flax 30 bu/ac and canola 42 bu/ac. Some producers of course saw lower yields either due to drier conditions or complications earlier in the growing season.

Due to some rainfall in the end of August and early September, the region is seeing a lower amount of spring wheat being graded as 1CW. Quality ratings for hard red spring wheat has been reported as 67 per cent 1CW, 30 per cent 2CW and three per cent 3CW.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind blowing around swaths, waterfowl and wildlife. Farmers are busy combining, harrowing, spraying weeds, baling, and hauling bales.

Northwestern Saskatchewan

Producers in this region took advantage of great weather over the past week and have got 94 per cent of the crop in the bin, this is well ahead of the five-year average of 60 per cent. This region has experienced some difficult harvest conditions in the past few years with too much rain or even snow causing multiple issues. It is encouraging to see that producers have been able to wrap up harvest without too many major weather-related issues. Conditions are extremely dry and producers would like to receive rain soon and have it keep raining for a multiple days.

It was another very dry week across the region with only trace amounts of precipitation being reported. While the region saw more rainfall this year, it did not take long before the moisture dried up; cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 15 per cent adequate, 62 per cent short and 23 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 13 per cent adequate, 59 per cent short and 19 per cent very short.

Even though much of the region experienced multiple weeks between rains, crop yield estimates are much higher than expected by many producers. Hard red spring wheat is yielding 53 bu/ac, oats 100 bu/ac, barley 74 bu/ac, flax 30 bu/ac and canola 40 bu/ac. Hard red spring wheat is also rated as 79 per cent 1CW, 20 per cent 2CW and one per cent 3CW.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, wildlife and waterfowl. Wind has been blowing swaths around but has also helped to dry some of the crop in the field.

Farmers are busy combining, drying grain and moving bales.

Saskatchewan celebrates agriculture

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Saskatchewan celebrates agriculture

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

The Government of Saskatchewan has proclaimed October as Agriculture Month.

During Agriculture Month, we take time to celebrate the agriculture industry and encourage consumers to learn more about the world-class, environmentally sustainable products produced right here in our own province. Throughout the month, we encourage the public to share their connection to food through the theme, “#MealsFromtheFarm.”

“Saskatchewan’s agriculture industry cannot thrive without the dedicated individuals that make up the value-chain,” Agriculture Minister David Marit said. “They have a passion for producing the healthy, affordable food that we share with our families everyday. I encourage everyone to show support by celebrating this innovative, resilient and sustainable industry.”

This year, Agriculture Month will also focus on farmers giving back to the communities they belong to, as well as highlight the great food they grow in the province. Throughout the month of October, Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan, in collaboration with industry partners, will share food stories, hold an online photo contest and use social media to encourage the public to learn about modern agriculture and to get involved by supporting meals in their local communities. There are many ways to celebrate Agriculture Month – participate in a community harvest supper, share a meal with your family in the field, or support your local foodbank.

“We are very fortunate to produce such an abundance of food in this province,” Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan Executive Director Clinton Monchuk said. “For Agriculture Month, we will be using the hashtag #MealsFromtheFarm to promote sharing the great food we grow here with everyone.”

For a full list of Agriculture Month events, or to learn how you can take part, visit farmfoodcaresk.org. Follow Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan on Twitter @FarmFoodCareSK, or on Facebook at Farm & Food Care Saskatchewan and share your stories on social media using #CelebrateAg and #MealsFromtheFarm.

Animal Health Week proclaimed in Saskatchewan

Submitted photo. Oct. 2-8 is Animal Health Week in Saskatchewan.

On Oct. 3, Agriculture Minister David Marit proclaimed October 2-8, 2022, as Animal Health Week in Saskatchewan in recognition of the high level of care ranchers provide to their livestock, the veterinarian-client relationships that inform animal care decisions and the links between human and animal health and the environment.

“Saskatchewan producers are rightfully proud of the care they provide to their livestock, and Animal Health Week is a chance for us to learn more about it – both from them and from the veterinarians who do so much to support them,” Marit said.

Animal Health Week has been an annual event for more than 30 years, proclaimed nationally by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association (CVMA) and supported by the Saskatchewan Veterinary Medical Association (SVMA).

“The physical and mental well-being of the human population is intricately connected to the well-being of our animals and environment,” SVMA Vice President Sarah Allin said. “Veterinarians are passionate about our central role and responsibilities supporting livestock producers, pet owners, government and environmental agencies. Together we are working toward the goal of One Health and sustainability.”

This year’s national theme is “Habitat Protection and Pandemic Prevention” which showcases the responsibilities of Canada’s veterinary professionals within the national One Health community, which safeguards the health and safety of animals and, consequently, people and the environment. Industry organizations and veterinarians will also be using the week to discuss and raise awareness about animal health topics such as vaccinations and biosecurity.

More information about animal health and welfare in Saskatchewan can be found at saskatchewan.ca/livestock.

Crop Report: For the Period September 20 to 26, 2022

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Crop Report: For the Period September 20 to 26, 2022

Producers in the southwest and west-central regions are mostly done harvest and are now completing other field work, while others were slowed down by cool, damp weather. Harvest progress reached 81 per cent this week, up from 73 per cent last week and still ahead of the five-year (2017-2021) average of 75 per cent. Many producers in the eastern and northern areas of the province are waiting for canola stems to dry down or for some warm, windy days to lower the moisture content of cereal grains.

Harvest is most advanced in the southwest region, where 98 per cent of the crop is now combined. The west-central region has 97 per cent, the southeast 74 per cent, the northwest 70 per cent, the northeast 69 per cent and the east-central has 65 per cent of their crop harvested.

The harvest of lentils and field peas across the province is virtually complete. Ninety-six per cent of the durum, 94 per cent of the chickpeas, 86 per cent of the barley, 83 per cent of the spring wheat and 66 per cent of the canola has been harvested so far. There is an additional 26 per cent of the canola ready to be swathed or straight-cut.

Small amounts of rainfall were received across the province last week, with the most falling in the northeast and southeast regions. The Bienfait and Melfort areas received 35 mm, the Calder area 14 mm and the Marengo area four mm. Other areas in the province received anywhere from trace amounts up to 10 mm.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 34 per cent adequate, 35 per cent short and 30 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 27 per cent adequate, 39 per cent short and 33 per cent very short.

Some areas are reporting moderate to severe on-site water shortages. Those producers are reporting that the situation is getting worse each week they don’t receive rain.

Producers are hauling water, bringing livestock closer to home or are drilling new wells to replace depleted or unsafe water sources.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, waterfowl and wildlife. Wind continues to impact unharvested crops by blowing swaths around, shelling out crops and causing lodging. Frost would be helpful for producers who are struggling with green stems as it will kill off green growth and reduce the need for herbicide applications.

Producers are busy combining, hauling grain, hauling bales, moving cattle and starting other fall field work, such as post-harvest weed control and harrowing. Winter cereals cannot be planted in many areas due to the extreme lack of soil moisture. Fall fertilizer applications are also not possible in many regions due to the dry conditions.

For the Period September 13 to 19, 2022

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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For the Period September 13 to 19, 2022

Many producers experienced cool, damp weather this past week which halted or slowed their harvest operations until conditions improved. Other producers that were able to continue either finished their harvest or are very close to doing so. Harvest progress for the province is at 73 per cent, up from 64 per cent last week and ahead of the five-year (2017-2021) average of 68 per cent. An additional 18 per cent of the crop is ready to be swathed or straight-cut.

Harvest is most advanced in the southwest region, where 96 per cent of the crop is now combined. The west-central region has 89 per cent combined and the southeast 65 per cent. The northwest region has 63 per cent combined, the northeast 58 per cent and the east-central 52 per cent.

Ninety-seven per cent of the lentils and field peas, 94 per cent of the durum, 78 per cent of the barley, 77 per cent of the spring wheat, 52 per cent of the canola and 35 per cent of the flax has now been combined. An additional 36 per cent of the canola is swathed or ready to straight-cut.

Precipitation was generally welcomed after several weeks of dry weather. Concerns about field and equipment fires have eased and there is hope that the rain will be enough in some areas to allow pastures a little regrowth. The Pelly area received 44 mm, the Melfort and Moosomin areas 30 mm, the Lipton area 13 mm, the Rosetown area nine mm and the Vanguard area four mm.

Provincial cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 37 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and 21 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 28 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short and 29 per cent very short. These conditions have declined across the province due to strong winds and a lack of rain.

Pasture conditions are rated as four per cent excellent, 23 per cent good, 31 per cent fair, 25 per cent poor and 17 per cent very poor. Conditions vary across the province, with the southeast, east-central and northeast regions in good to excellent condition due to rainfall in the spring and throughout the summer that helped maintain pasture grass.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, waterfowl, wildlife and lack of moisture. There were several reports of hard frosts in across the province but producers say damage is low due to crops being so well advanced. The recent rain will likely cause some minor downgrading to standing or swathed cereal crops due to bleaching.

Producers are busy wrapping up harvest, hauling bales, moving cattle home or to market, hauling water and engaged in post-harvest field activities such as herbicide application.

Crop Report: For the Period September 6 to 12, 2022

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Ideal conditions over the past week allowed for producers across all regions in the province to make immense progress with harvest. Sixty-four per cent of the crop has now been harvested, up from 42 per cent last week and just ahead of the five-year (2017-2021) average of 57 per cent. An additional 20 per cent of the crop is ready to swath or straight cut. Many producers in the southwest and west-central regions have completed harvest and are on to other field work. There are concerns regarding soil moisture and a good soaking rain post-harvest would be ideal, as soil is drying out across the province after several weeks of minimal precipitation, wind and hot weather.

Harvest is most advanced in the southwest region, where 93 per cent of the crop is in the bin. The west-central has 80 per cent combined, the southeast 57 per cent, the northwest 47 per cent, the east-central 46 per cent and the northeast 41 per cent.

Ninety-five per cent of the lentils and field peas, 90 per cent of durum, 72 per cent of barley, 68 per cent of spring wheat, 39 per cent of canola and 23 per cent of flax has been combined. There is an additional 40 per cent of canola that is ready to swath or straight-cut.

Durum quality grades are estimated as 50 per cent 1 CW, 30 per cent 2 CW, 15 per cent 3 CW and five per cent 4 and 5 CW. Pea quality grades are estimated as 45 per cent 1 CAN, 46 per cent 2 CAN, nine per cent 3 CAN and one per cent Sample grade. Lentil quality grades are estimated as 34 per cent 1 CAN, 60 per cent 2 CAN and seven per cent 3 CAN.

Most of the province received very little to no rainfall this week. The Livelong, St. Walburg and Meadow Lake areas received a range of two to five mm which did not result in major delays.

Harvest Progress
Per cent Combined
All Crops
Sept. 13/2174
Sept. 14/2062
Sept. 16/1923
Sept. 10/1858
Sept. 11/1767
5 year avg. (2017-2021)57
10 year avg. (2012-2021)47

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 37 per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and 24 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 27 per cent adequate, 44 per cent short and 28 per cent very short.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to light hail, wind and dry conditions. Frost was reported from the southeast up into the northwest; damage is not assessed yet as some areas received more severe frosts than others. Strong winds have continued to blow swaths and shell out crops. There were also reports of damage caused by wildlife and waterfowl as they make their way south.

Producers are busy combining, swathing, hauling bales and moving cattle. Post-harvest activities are well underway in some regions. Producers are noting that many areas are too dry to consider seeding winter cereals.

Crop Report For the Period August 30 to September 5, 2022

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Crop Report For the Period August 30 to September 5, 2022

Last week’s harvest conditions allowed producers all over the province to make great progress with their harvest operations. Forty-two per cent of the crop has been harvested across the province, up from 23 per cent last week and slightly ahead of the five-year average (2017-2021) of 40 per cent. An additional 20 per cent of the crop is ready to swath or straight-cut. Crops that were not ready for harvest have quickly ripened after a stretch of warm and dry days.

The southwest region continues to lead harvest operations with 83 per cent of the crop now combined. The west-central has 61 per cent of their crop harvested, the southeast 33 per cent, the northwest 28 per cent, the east-central 27 per cent and the northeast 21 per cent.

Winter cereals are very close to being completed with 96 per cent of winter wheat and 84 per cent of fall rye harvested. Ninety-one per cent of lentils and field peas, 70 per cent of durum, 52 per cent of barley, 40 per cent of spring wheat and 22 per cent of the canola crop has now been combined.

The current estimated averages of crop yields are 43 bushels per acre for hard red spring wheat, 30 bushels per acre for durum, 34 bushels per acre for canola, 34 bushels per acre for field peas and 1,174 pounds per acre for lentils. Crop yields in the southwest and west-central regions have been greatly affected by the extremely hot and dry conditions experienced during critical growing stages this season; yields are significantly lower in these areas than the provincial averages.

There was very little rainfall across the province this past week which allowed crops to ripen to a point where they could be harvested without delay. The Prince Albert area received 13 mm and the Garrick area received five mm.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 42 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 23 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 35 per cent adequate, 39 per cent short and 25 per cent very short.

The majority of crop damage this past week was attributed to wind and grasshoppers. Strong winds blew swaths around fields and will result in yield loss and a difficult harvest for affected producers. Strong winds are likely to shell out very ripe crops leading to crop yield reductions as well. Grasshoppers will continue to be a significant problem until conditions are less favourable for them. Producers have noticed a slight increase of ergot fungus in their cereal fields this year, likely due to the increase in precipitation received during the crop flowering stage.

Crop producers are busy combining, swathing, desiccating, baling straw and hauling bales. Livestock producers are busy moving cattle, hauling water and taking inventory of their winter feed supplies.

With harvest underway in Saskatchewan, we want to remind producers to take breaks, exercise caution and remain safe. Remember to ensure lights and reflectors are in good working order when moving equipment. We ask motorists to remain vigilant and to exercise patience when traveling around or near farm equipment on the highway.

Crop report for the period of Aug. 16-22

Daily Herald Contributor
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Crop report for the period of Aug. 16-22

Hot, dry weather allowed for tremendous harvest progress, especially in the southwest and west-central regions. Some areas in the east-central region received heavy rainfall once again, which has slowed down the maturation of crops or halted producers who are ready to begin harvest of early seeded crops. Harvest progress sits at 16 per cent, up from five per cent last week and right on par with the five-year average. An additional 12 per cent of the crop is now swathed or ready to straight-cut.
Harvest progress is most advanced in the southwest region where farmers have 45 per cent of their crop now in the bin, followed by producers in the west-central who have 19 per cent of their crop harvested. Farmers in the southeast have six per cent of crop off their fields, the east-central has completed four per cent and both the northern regions have one per cent of their crop harvested. For many producers in the wetter areas of the province, harvest will not begin for another week or more as their crops have not matured yet.
Roughly 63 per cent of the winter wheat, 36 per cent of the fall rye, 52 per cent of the lentils, 43 per cent of the field peas, 30 per cent of the durum, six per cent of the spring wheat and three per cent of the canola has been combined.
Several localized rain showers passed through the province over the past week, mainly over the eastern and northern regions with some parts of the southern regions receiving precipitation ranging from nil to 18 mm in the Moosomin area. The Yorkton area received 36 mm, the Eyebrow area 28 mm, the Foam Lake area 26 mm, the Hudson Bay area 22 mm and the Hafford area eight mm. Grain producers across the province would like to see a halt in the rain so they can either maintain momentum with harvest operations or to allow their crops to finally ripen so that harvest may begin. Many producers have voiced concern over how badly they will need rain once harvest is completed to recharge the soil moisture of their respective regions.
Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 56 per cent adequate, 26 per cent short and 17 per cent very short. Hay and pastureland topsoil moisture is rated as three per cent surplus, 52 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and 16 per cent very short.
Provincially, pasture conditions are rated as six per cent excellent, 37 per cent good, 28 per cent fair, 16 per cent poor and 13 per cent very poor. Pastures have greatly improved this year due to more frequent rains; the largest improvement has been seen in the eastern half of the province along with the northwest region. In the southwest and west-central regions, pastures have not fared as well due to suffering through extremely dry growing conditions once again.
The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, heavy rainfall and hail. Grasshoppers continue to cause large amounts of crop loss, with producers already worried about what their population next year will be and how they will manage to control them. There were also a handful of reports of sawfly damage in some wheat fields this past week, but producers are saying that damage is low for the time being. Farmers are busy getting equipment and bins ready for harvest and waiting for their crop to dry enough to allow combining. With harvest underway in Saskatchewan, we want to remind producers to exercise caution and remain safe. Give equipment plenty of time and space when traveling down or crossing highways or other roads. Producers are reminded to have firefighting equipment nearby especially in regions that are extremely dry.

Northeastern Saskatchewan
Crops are getting closer to maturity with many crops just a week or so away from being harvestable, some later seeded crops will need more time and producers are worried they will be hit with frost before they are fully ripe leading to quality and yield issues. One per cent of the crop in the northeast region has been harvested which is well behind of the five-year average (2017-2022) for this time of year of seven per cent. The region needs more hot, dry weather to allow crops to mature and dry down. Most producers have their equipment ready and will be working around the clock to advance harvest once crops are ready. Harvest that has taken place has mainly been in field pea and barley crops.
The Hudson Bay area received 22 mm of rain over the past week while the rest of the region saw insignificant amounts of rain. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 84 per cent adequate and 16 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 78 per cent adequate and 22 per cent short. Pasture conditions in the region are rated as 10 per cent excellent, 68 per cent good, 21 per cent fair and one per cent poor.
Crop damage was minor this week with most being attributed to wind that led to lodging in some taller or thicker crops. Some cereal crops are suffering from disease, and this will lead to rejected or downgraded grain at the elevators.
Northwestern Saskatchewan
Another hot week has allowed many crops in the region to begin to dry down and get ready for harvest, producers have been busy spraying desiccants and swathing but very little combining has been done so far. Harvest progress has reached one per cent of the crop now combined in the region, just behind the five-year average (2017-2021) of four per cent for this time of year.
There was very little rainfall this past week. Producers are happy to see it remain dry for the time being but would like to see the rains return once harvest is complete. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 70 per cent adequate and 29 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 53 per cent adequate, 45 per cent short and two per cent very short. Pasture conditions in the region are rated as one per cent excellent, 50 per cent good, 37 per cent fair and twelve per cent poor.
The majority of crop damage this week was due to heat stress after a week of hot weather. Disease is another large contributor to crop damage in the region with fusarium being found in cereal crops and sclerotinia in canola. There have also been a few reports of minor pressure from lygus and diamondback moths.

Farm disaster program renewal must support livestock producers

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Farm disaster program renewal must support livestock producers

Saskatchewan’s agricultural producers have been through a tough couple of years, especially our livestock producers.

Extreme drought across Western Canada in 2021 created widespread shortages of livestock feed and water, and left pastures and hay land in poor condition for the upcoming year.

In 2021, provincial and federal governments stepped up with AgriRecovery support to help producers deal with the increased costs of maintaining their herds, and that aid was very much appreciated. It was also designed as a one-time program that is now winding down.

Producers also appreciate the changes to remove the Reference Margin Limit in AgriStability, which has improved that program.

Significant challenges remain for this year however, and we are unsure about whether there is adequate programming to support the livestock sector.

2022 is shaping up as another difficult year for cattle producers. Many farms in the southeast lost new calves in the blizzards that swept through the area over the past few weeks. Calf mortality rates are reportedly up to 15% for some operations. These losses are not covered under current Business Risk Management (BRM) programming.

Producers appreciate the announcement of the Provincial Disaster Assistance Program (PDAP) in areas affected by spring storms.

At the same time, extreme drought persists in some western parts of Saskatchewan. There’s no feed available and farms are preparing to pasture their animals on land that has little prospect of new growth without significant moisture.

Governments have not given themselves the toolkit they need to deal with emergency situations. We clearly need improvements to BRM programs to better support producers during and after natural disasters.

Federal and provincial governments are currently negotiating the next five-year agreement for agricultural policy. These consultations must recognize the significant challenges facing Saskatchewan livestock producers and develop better programs to support the industry in times of disaster.

It is also time to ensure that livestock and mixed producers can take advantage of production insurance tools like those that are available for crop producers.

Earlier this month, the APAS Next Policy Framework (NPF) Task Force released their recommendations for the 2023 agricultural programs. The report addresses the need for cost-shared insurance, disaster assistance programs that are on par with other countries, and environmental initiatives that support the development of water supplies on a much larger and more ambitious scale than what is currently available. 

Canada produces the highest quality and most sustainably produced livestock in the world. The challenges facing cattle producers today threaten the long-term viability of the industry. Government programs can and should help producers better manage these risks. 

We hope the government’s current negotiations will recognize the livestock industry’s contributions to Canadian agriculture by creating programs for 2023 that will better support the needs of our industry for the future. 

Ian Boxall is the president of the Agricultural Producers Association of Saskatchewan.

Crop Report for the Period September 7 to 13, 2021

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Crop Report for the Period September 7 to 13, 2021

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

Producers continued to make quick progress in their harvest operations this week. Seventy-four per cent of the crop has been combined, up from 56 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year (2016-2020) average of 50 per cent for this time of year. An additional 17 per cent of the crop is swathed or ready to straight-cut. Warm and dry weather is desired to continue drying down crops and allow harvest to continue without delay.

Harvest is most advanced in the southwest region, where 85 per cent of the crop is in the bin. The southeast has 81 per cent combined, the west-central 79 per cent, the east-central 63 per cent, the northeast 69 per cent and the northwest 57 per cent.

Ninety-nine per cent of the lentils, 98 per cent of the field peas, 86 per cent of the mustard, 82 per cent of the barley, 89 per cent of the durum, 83 per cent of the spring wheat, 54 per cent of the canola and 25 per cent of the flax has now been combined. An additional 34 per cent of the canola is swathed or ready to straight-cut.

Durum grades are being estimated as 27 per cent 1 CW, 34 per cent 2 CW, 28 per cent 3 CW and eleven per cent 4 and 5 CW. Pea grades are estimated as 25 per cent 1 CAN, 62 per cent 2 CAN, 12 per cent 3 CAN and one per cent Sample grade. Lentil grades are estimated to be 20 per cent 1 CAN, 62 per cent 2 CAN, 15 per cent 3 CAN and three per cent Sample grade.

Most of the province received very little to no rainfall this week. The Shaunavon and Gull Lake areas received the highest amount of rain with 15 mm. Topsoil moisture conditions in the province continue to deteriorate due to strong winds and minimal rainfall. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 36 per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and 26 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 21 per cent adequate, 44 per cent short and 35 per cent very short.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to hail, wind and dry conditions. Frost was recorded in one RM in the northwest region; damage will vary depending on the temperature and duration of the frost as well as the stage of the crop. At this point in the season, the damage will likely be minimal as most crops are matured enough to withstand a minimal frost. Wind has continued to blow swaths and shell out crops. There were also reports of damage caused by wildlife and waterfowl.

Producers are busy combining, swathing, hauling bales and moving cattle. Post-harvest activities are well underway where harvest has finished up and producers hope the weather holds out so that fall herbicide and fertilizer applications can be carried out without issue.

With harvest underway in Saskatchewan, we want to remind producers to exercise caution and remain safe.

As of Sept. 1, the AgriRecovery program, now referred to as the 2021 Canada-Saskatchewan Drought Response Initiative, is accepting producer applications. The initiative will consist of two payments totaling up to $200/head for cattle, with adjustments based on animal unit equivalents for other livestock. The initial payment will provide producers with $100 per breeding female equivalent in inventory as of Aug. 1, 2021. Secondary payments of up to $100 per breeding female in inventory as of Dec. 31, 2021, will be made to producers who have incurred additional costs to retain the animals. Producers with questions can call the initiative’s dedicated toll-free number at 1-844-723-1211 or directly by email skdri@scic.ca.

We would like to also remind producers that the Farm Stress Line is available for support if you need it.  It is a confidential service, available 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, toll-free at 1-800-667-4442.  Calls are answered by Mobile Crisis Services Regina, a non-profit, community-based agency and there is no call display.

Northeastern Saskatchewan

Producers are making good progress with harvest and some have finished harvesting all together. Sixty-nine per cent of the crop is now combined, which is up significantly from 34 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year (2016-2020) average for this time of year of 29 per cent. An additional 21 per cent of the crop is swathed or ready to straight-cut. A lot of the crop is coming off tough and is needing to be placed in aeration bins or dried.

There was little rainfall received in the region this past week, ranging from none to five mm in the Spruce Home area. The Garrick, Bruno, Hudson Bay and Arborfield areas all received two mm.

Warm, dry conditions are desired to support harvest progress but rain is hoped for after harvest is complete in the region. Moisture conditions in the region have declined this week with less land being rated adequate for moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 38 per cent adequate, 51 per cent short and eleven per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 18 per cent adequate, 63 per cent short and 19 per cent very short.

Pea grades are estimated as 23 per cent 1 CAN, 63 per cent 2 CAN and 14 per cent 3 CAN.

The majority of crop damage past week was due to wind, waterfowl and a light frost. The frost likely will not have caused significant damage to any standing crops.

Producers are busy swathing, combining and hauling bales.

Northwestern Saskatchewan

Harvest was delayed a few days due to some scattered rain showers but producers were still able to make very good progress. Fifty-seven per cent of the crop has been combined, up from 37 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year (2016-2020) average for this time of year of 19 per cent. An additional 35 per cent of the crop is swathed or ready to straight-cut. Producers are hoping for warm, dry conditions for the remainder of harvest.

Rainfall was spotty throughout the region this week. The North Battleford area received the highest amount of rain this week with 15 mm. The Neilburg area received 9.5 mm, the St. Walburg area nine mm, the Frenchman Butte, Lloydminster and Barthel areas all received seven mm and the Mayfair area five mm.

Much of the crop is coming off tough and damp and needing to be dried. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 27 per cent adequate, 35 per cent short and 38 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 16 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 50 per cent very short.

Pea grades are estimated as 27 per cent 1 CAN, 49 per cent 2 CAN, 24 per cent 3 CAN.

The majority of crop damage past week was due to frost in the Mayfair area, wind and wildlife.

Producers are busy combining, swathing, grain drying and moving bales.

Crop report for the period Aug. 24-30, 2021

Sask Ministry of Agriculture
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Crop report for the period Aug. 24-30, 2021

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

Despite the recent rainfall delays that many producers experienced, harvest continues to progress quickly this week. It has advanced substantially in the northern regions. Thirty-six per cent of the crop is now in the bin, up from 29 per cent last week and well over the five-year (2016-2020) average of 22 per cent. An additional 30 per cent of the crop is now swathed or ready to straight-cut.

The southwest region continues to have the most progress in the province with 47 per cent of the crop now combined. The southeast region has 42 per cent combined, the west-central 36 per cent, the east-central 25 per cent, the northeast 34 per cent and the northwest 21 per cent.

Ninety-nine per cent of the winter wheat, 83 per cent of the fall rye, 85 per cent of the lentils, 84 per cent of the field peas, 57 per cent of the mustard, 40 per cent of the durum, 11 per cent of the chickpeas, 36 per cent of the spring wheat and 11 per cent of the canola has now been combined. An additional 19 per cent of the canola and 16 per cent of the mustard is swathed or ready to straight-cut.

Many parts of the province experienced scattered rain showers this week, varying from trace amounts up to 77 mm in the Limerick area. The Macklin area received 51 mm, the Conquest area 40 mm, the Roblin area 35 mm, the Goodeve area 30 mm and the Rama area 28 mm.

Recent rains have helped green up pastures which might allow cattle producers to continue pasture grazing and save their winter feed stocks.

Topsoil moisture conditions continue to improve in most areas due to cooler temperatures and recent rains. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 40 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 25 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 28 per cent adequate, 43 per cent short and 29 per cent very short.

Most crop damage this past week was due to heavy rain, hail, strong winds, insects and the long-lasting effects of the drought. The rain has caused downgrading of many crops still standing in fields; the biggest issues reported are bleaching, staining, sprouting, low kernel weights and fungal growth. Reported yields are far lower than average for many parts of the province with some areas reporting some fields that have yielded almost nothing.

Producers are busy hauling bales and water as well as combining and swathing between rain showers.

As of Sept. 1, the AgriRecovery program, now referred to as the 2021 Canada-Saskatchewan Drought Response Initiative, is accepting producer applications. The Initiative will consist of two payments totalling up to $200/head for cattle, with adjustments based on animal unit equivalents for other livestock. The initial payment will provide producers with $100 per breeding female equivalent in inventory as of Aug. 1, 2021. Secondary payments of up to $100 per breeding female in inventory as of Dec. 31, 2021, will be made to producers who have incurred additional costs to retain the animals. Producers with questions can call the initiative’s dedicated toll-free number at 1-844-723-1211 or directly by email: skdri@scic.ca.

With harvest underway in Saskatchewan, we want to remind producers to exercise caution while working out in the field. Be aware, take breaks and remain safe.

The Farm Stress Line is also available for support 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, toll-free at 1-800-667-4442. Calls are answered by Mobile Crisis Services Regina, a non-profit, community-based agency and there is no call display.

Northeast Saskatchewan

Harvest is nicely progressing in the region despite recent rain and cooler weather. Thirty-four per cent of the crop is now in the bin, up from 25 per cent last week and ahead of the five-year (2016-2020) average of seven per cent for this time of year.
Overall crops remain in poor condition with yields expected to be below average. While some crops are coming off dry, others are coming off tough and are being placed into aeration bins and dryers. Some fields remain wet and will need good drying weather before harvest can begin.

Most of the region received rain last week that delayed some producers in the field. The Melfort area reported 56 mm, the Humboldt area 53 mm, the Prince Albert area 50 mm, the Lake Lenore area 30 mm and the Hudson Bay and Nipawin areas 22 mm.
Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 42 per cent adequate, 47 per cent short and 11 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 26 per cent adequate, 58 per cent short and 16 per cent very short. Crop District 8A is reporting that 58 per cent of the cropland and 57 per cent of the hay and pasture land is short for topsoil moisture at this time.

The majority of crop damage this past week was due to localized hail and strong winds that have blown swaths around and shelled some standing crops. One hail storm was reported to have covered approximately 20 quarters and the damage varied from light to 100 per cent loss.

Producers are busy combining, swathing, desiccating and hauling bales.

Northwest Saskatchewan

The majority of the northwest did not receive large amounts of rainfall but conditions were still damp enough to slow down harvest progress across the region. Twenty-one per cent of the crop is now combined, up from 15 per cent last week and more than four times the five-year (2016-2020) average of five per cent. Initial crop yields and qualities are very low.

Rainfall this past week ranged from trace amounts to 50 mm in the Duck Lake area. The Hafford and Barthel areas reported 10 mm of rain while the Mayfair and North Battleford areas reported four mm.

Cropland topsoil moisture conditions are rated as 13 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 53 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and 56 per cent very short.

Most crop damage this past week was due to strong winds that have blown swaths around and shelled out some standing crops. Hail was reported in some areas but the damage is not known at this time.

Producers are busy combining, swathing, desiccating and hauling bales.

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