Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

Rainy, cool weather throughout the province delayed combining progress this week. Harvest progressed to 29 per cent complete, up from 20 per cent last week and well over the five-year average of 12 per cent. An additional 21 per cent of the crop is now swathed or ready to straight-cut, ahead of the five-year average of 16 per cent. Producers would have rather had rain during critical stages of the growing season, but were happy to receive significant amounts of it this week.

Ninety-three per cent of the winter wheat, 78 per cent of the fall rye, 76 per cent of the lentils, 81 per cent of the field peas, 42 per cent of the barley, 31 per cent of the durum, 23 per cent of the oats, 25 per cent of the spring wheat and six per cent of the canola has been combined. An additional 30 per cent of canola has been swathed or is ready to straight-cut.

Harvest progress is most advanced in the southern regions. Producers in the southwest region have 43 per cent combined, the southeast region 30 per cent, the west-central 27 per cent, the east-central 22 per cent, the northeast 25 per cent and the northwest 15 per cent.

Several large weather systems moved through the province last week, resulting in significant amounts of precipitation along with hail in some areas. The Grenfell area received the most rainfall with 97 mm, the Moose Jaw area 77 mm, the Vanguard area 60 mm, the Jedburgh area 55 mm, the Harris area 50 mm and the Nether Hill area 46 mm. The rain will result in downgrading of crops still in the field; however, it will benefit pastures and hopefully allow them to regrow for next year.

The cool weather and large amounts of rainfall across much of the province has helped with the hot and dry conditions, however, much more rain is needed to break out of the current drought. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 32 per cent adequate, 37 per cent short and 30 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 23 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 42 per cent very short. Provincially, pasture conditions are rated as one per cent good, 15 per cent fair, 46 per cent poor and 38 per cent very poor.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, heavy rainfall and hail. Even with the rainfall, crop and pasture land is under extreme stress from the drought. Around the Hodgeville area, a tornado touched down and resulted in considerable damage to one farm yard, damaging equipment, buildings and grain bins.

Producers are busy getting equipment and bins ready for harvest and waiting for crops to dry enough to combine.

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.

In response to the drought, the province announced an AgriRecovery response to provide a per head payment to help maintain female breeding livestock. Details and information on how to apply are being finalized and will be shared as soon as possible. Note that producers don’t have to be enrolled in any existing programs to qualify for funding. As details are finalized, producers can check Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation (SCIC) for updates, or contact their local office or call toll-free at 1-888-935-0000.

Producers are also reminded that in response to the feed shortage this year, SCIC doubled the Low Yield Appraisal threshold values for customers who salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. Customers are asked to contact their local SCIC office before they graze, bale or silage any damaged crops to discuss their options.

Additionally, the Government of Saskatchewan made changes to temporarily increase the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive from the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) for dugouts, wells and pipelines for agricultural use. Producers can contact the Ministry of Agriculture’s Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 for information.

The federal and provincial governments have also increased the 2021 AgriStability interim benefit payment percentage from 50 per cent to 75 per cent for Saskatchewan producers. The interim benefit provides the opportunity for producers enrolled in AgriStability to access a portion of their benefit early, to help support losses and cover costs. To apply for an interim benefit, producers can contact their local SCIC office, call the AgriStability Call Centre toll-free at 1-886-270-8450, or by email agristability@scic.ca.

Northeast Saskatchewan

Harvest has started in the region with field peas, barley, oats and wheat being the first to be combined. Fourteen per cent of the crop is now combined, enormously ahead of the five-year average of one per cent. Twenty-one per cent of the crop is swathed or ready to straight combine which is again well ahead of the five-year average of one per cent for this time of year. Yields vary greatly across the region but many producers are finding their yields to be extremely disappointing.

Ninety-four per cent of the fall rye, 57 per cent of the field peas, 36 per cent of the lentils, 13 per cent of the oats, 36 per cent of the barley and 14 per cent of the wheat has been combined. Twelve per cent of the canola has been swathed.

The northeast region received very little rainfall this week. The Spruce Home area received the highest amount of rain with 15 mm. The Vonda area received nine mm and the Bruno, Lake Lenore and Nipawin areas received eight mm.

Warm, dry conditions this week have reduced topsoil moisture conditions in the region. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 50 per cent short and 50 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 34 per cent short and 66 per cent very short.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to heat and lack of moisture in most areas of the region. Strong winds storms blew some swaths around and likely shattered pods of ripe crops.

Producers are busy combining getting bins ready for harvest as well as swathing and desiccating crops in some areas. Fire risk is high and many producers are taking action to prevent them.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Harvest progress has doubled in the northwest region this week with 15 per cent of the crop now combined, well ahead of the five-year average of two per cent. An additional 29 per cent of the crop is swathed or ready to be straight cut, with the five-year average being nine per cent.

Eighty-two per cent of the field peas, 29 per cent of the barley, 49 per cent of the lentils and 15 per cent of the spring wheat have been combined. An additional 36 per cent of the canola has been swathed.

Areas around Mayfair received the most rainfall this week, reporting 60 mm. The Speers area received 38 mm, the Turtleford area 22 mm, the Pierceland area 16 mm and the Barthel and Meadow Lake areas nine mm. The rain is welcome but there are concerns about crop downgrading.

Moisture conditions increased significantly due to rainfall across the region. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 27 per cent adequate, 23 per cent short and 50 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 19 per cent adequate, 27 per cent short and 54 per cent very short.

Pasture conditions in the region are rated as nine per cent fair, 44 per cent poor and 47 very poor.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, dry conditions, hail and geese. Standing or swathed crops might see a downgrade due to rain.

Producers are busy hauling grain, getting bins ready, moving cattle to fields to stubble graze and waiting for conditions to improve and combining to resume.

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

Crops remain extremely stressed from the lack of moisture and continue to advance quickly due to the heat and dry conditions throughout the growing season. Many parts of the province saw a break in the heat with clouds and smoke from fires moving in, providing crops a slight reprieve from heat stress. Any rain received now will not help increase crop yield but it will help maintain yields through the heat.

Provincially, 51 per cent of the fall cereals, 52 per cent of the spring cereals, 50 per cent of the oilseeds and 49 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Many cereal crops that have headed out are not developing kernels and some producers have elected to cut these crops as greenfeed. There is a significant shortage of livestock feed, so we encourage producers to consider alternate uses for crops that will not develop.

Rainfall varied throughout the province this past week with many regions receiving from nil up to 75 mm. The Redvers area received of the most rainfall with 75 mm, the Kisbey and Stoughton areas received 34 mm and the Kindersley area received two mm.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent adequate, 39 per cent short and 53 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent adequate, 31 per cent short and 63 per cent very short.

Haying continues in the province with 22 per cent of the hay crop cut and 61 per cent baled or put into silage. Hay quality is currently rated as eight per cent excellent, 51 per cent good, 32 per cent fair and nine per cent poor.  

Hay yields are well below normal and most producers are unsure if a second cut will be possible this year. Low hay yields and quality are causing concerns over the amount of feed available to carry cattle over into the winter. Estimated average dryland hay yields at this time are 0.70 tons per acre for alfalfa and alfalfa/brome grass, 0.60 tons per acre for other tame hay and wild hay and one tonne per acre for greenfeed. Estimated average irrigated hay yields are 1.79 tons per acre for alfalfa, 1.67 tons per acre for alfalfa/bromegrass and 1.23 tons per acre for greenfeed.  

Crop damage this week was attributed to localized hail, strong winds, lack of moisture, heat and grasshoppers. Many producers are assessing the benefit of spraying for grasshoppers in fields that are very poor in condition and are considering cutting them as greenfeed.

Farmers are busy haying, doing yield assessments through SCIC, researching their options around water infrastructure and some have already begun prepping their harvesting equipment.

In response to the feed shortage this year, Saskatchewan Crop Insurance Corporation is doubling the Low Yield Appraisal threshold values for customers who salvage their cereal or pulse crops as feed, without negatively impacting future individual coverage. Customers are asked to contact their local SCIC office before they graze, bale or silage any damaged crops to discuss their options. Additionally, the Government of Saskatchewan is making changes to temporarily increase the maximum funding a livestock producer can receive from the Farm and Ranch Water Infrastructure Program (FRWIP) for dugouts, wells and pipelines for agricultural use. This change will be in effect for the April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022, time period. The maximum rebate for livestock producers during this time period will increase from $50,000 to $150,000. The first $50,000 will be based on a 50-50 cost-share and the remaining $100,000 will be on a 70-30 government-producer cost-share.  Producers can contact the Agriculture Knowledge Centre at 1-866-457-2377 for more information.

Northeast Saskatchewan

Crops continue to deteriorate in the region and a large portion of the crops are ahead of their normal stages of development, causing several producers to predict harvest starting far sooner than normal. Wheat and canola crops appear to have fared the heat better than other crops such as oats and barley but yield assessments need to be conducted to determine if any crop has developed any viable seed.

The entire north-east region received next to no precipitation this week except for the Christopher Lake area which received 15 mm. Topsoil moisture conditions have declined since the previous week and are expected to keep falling. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent adequate, 45 per cent short and 49 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent adequate, 25 per cent short and 69 per cent short. Crop District 8A is reporting that 50 per cent of the cropland and 24 per cent of the hay land and pasture is rated as short for topsoil moisture at this time.

Livestock producers now have 15 per cent of the hay crop cut and 78 put cent baled or put into silage. Hay quality is currently rated as nine per cent excellent, 45 per cent good, 45 per cent fair and one per cent poor.

The majority of crop damage this past week was due to strong winds and lack of moisture. Grasshoppers continue to be of concern and some producers are applying insecticides, with some areas spraying twice. Producers are only spraying fields that are worth saving and are leaving their very poor fields to be cut and baled as greenfeed. 

Producers are busy haying, doing yield assessments, applying pesticides and getting equipment ready for harvest.

Northwest Saskatchewan

The region remains extremely hot and dry, disrupting normal crop development and producer harvest plans. The majority of crops are ahead of their normal stage of crop development and many crops have not filled their heads or pods with seed, and likely won’t unless a good rain is received. 

The only occurrence of rain in the region happened around the Barthel area and resulted in only six mm of rain.

Topsoil moisture conditions have worsened in the region due to the recent rains. Cropland topsoil moisture is now rated as seven per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and 55 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as seven per cent adequate,46 per cent short and 47 per cent very short. Crop District 9B is reporting that 50 per cent of the cropland and 31 per cent of the hay land and pasture is rated as very short for topsoil moisture at this time.

Livestock producers currently have 24 per cent of the hay crop cut and 59 per cent baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as 20 per cent excellent, 40 per cent good 7 per cent fair and 33 per cent poor.

The majority of crop damage this past week was due to strong winds and lack of moisture. Grasshoppers continue to be of concern and some producers are applying insecticides, with some areas spraying twice. Producers are only spraying fields that are worth saving and are leaving their very poor fields to be cut and baled as greenfeed. 

Producers are busy haying, doing yield assessments, applying pesticides and getting equipment ready for harvest.

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

The extremely hot and dry weather and minimal rainfall this week continues to cause crops to rapidly advance their developmental stages. Currently, 36 per cent of the fall cereals, 29 per cent of the spring cereals, 25 per cent of the oilseed crops and 30 per cent of the pulse crops are ahead of their normal stages of development for this time of year. The majority of crops this week are in poor to good condition.

The prolonged period of heat, coupled with the extremely dry conditions of the topsoil, has caused crops to be short, thin and impulsively advancing in many regions of the province due to the stress. Without a significant rainfall, many crops throughout the province will have their yields and quality severely impacted.

The topsoil moisture levels across the province also continue to decrease. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 14 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and 45 per cent very poor. Hay and pasture land is rated as nine per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and 55 per cent very short.

Rainfall this past week ranged from nil to 64 mm in the Foam Lake area. Scattered thunderstorms across the province provided a range of precipitation with some areas receiving more than others. The Odessa, Mossbank and Humboldt areas received 32 mm, the Radville and Rockglen areas 29 mm and the Avonlea area received 22 mm.

The rainfall this week did little to delay producers from their haying operations. Livestock producers now have 26 per cent of the hay crop cut while 39 per cent has been baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as four per cent excellent, 48 per cent good, 33 per cent fair and 15 per cent poor.

The Ministry of Highways would like to remind producers that grass is available, at no cost, for haying in highway ditches and rights of way. Since July 8, producers have been able to harvest any unclaimed hay without seeking permission of the adjacent landowner.

In the southern and central regions, hay in the ditches along secondary and rural highways is available on a first-come basis. Bales must be removed before August 15.

In the northern grain belt, contractors will start mowing ditches and rights of way on July 15. For more details, check out saskatchewan.ca or contact the Ministry of Highways district office in your area.

Crop and hay land damage this week was caused by the extremely dry soil conditions, hot temperatures, hot dry winds, grasshoppers and severe hail storms that swept through many parts of the province.

We would like to remind producers the Farm Stress Line is available for support if you need it. The Farm Stress Line 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.

Northeast Saskatchewan

The extended period of hot and dry weather conditions last week has taken a toll on many crops in the northeastern region. Yield potential has already been impacted with many crops showing symptoms of heat stress. Some crops are thin, stunted, are prematurely advancing and drying down. Even areas that received more rain throughout the spring are reporting that their crops are beginning to deteriorate rapidly and show more signs of heat stress. Crops are rated as good to poor across the region. Thirty-one per cent of fall cereals, 58 per cent of spring cereals, 58 per cent of oilseed and 71 per cent of pulse crops are rated as being in their normal stage of development.

Very little rainfall was received last week, ranging from trace amounts to 14 mm in the Emma Lake area. The Hudson Bay area received 10 mm and the Arborfield area received four mm.

Topsoil moisture across the region has severely deteriorated from last week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent adequate, 57 per cent short and 35 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land is rated as seven per cent adequate, 59 per cent short and 39 per cent very short. Rainfall is desperately needed in the region to help crops set and fill seed.

Twenty-eight per cent of hay has now been cut in the region with 49 per cent baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as 69 per cent good, 23 per cent fair and eight per cent poor. Yields at this time are expected to be lower than normal, although some wetter areas are hoping for average yields

The majority of crop damage this past week is due to lack of moisture, strong winds, gophers and insects such as grasshoppers.

Producers are busy haying, fixing equipment, applying fungicides if warranted and hoping for rain.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Continuous hot dry weather and little precipitation have taken a toll on crops in the region. Crops are now showing signs of heat stress and have begun to prematurely develop. Many canola fields that were flowering during the heat wave show severe damage from heat blasting. Rain is desperately needed to help later seeded crops set seed and keep the damage to yield and quality to a minimum.

Much of the region did not receive any rainfall, although the Lloydminster area reported 10 mm, the St. Walberg area nine mm and Meadow Lake area four mm.

Topsoil moisture conditions continue to decline in the region thanks to high temperatures, strong winds and very little rainfall. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as ten per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and 50 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land is rated as 12 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and 56 per cent very short.

Haying operations continue in the region, although yields are expected to be considerably less than normal. Some producers are not expecting a second cut. Twenty-two per cent of the hay crop has been cut and 39 per cent is baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as seven per cent excellent, 40 per cent good, 20 per cent fair and 33 per cent poor.

Pastures are browning from the heat and the reduced carrying capacity is already impacting livestock.

Crop damage this week is due to the extreme lack of moisture, strong winds, hot temperatures and pests such as gophers. Some producers have been applying insecticides for grasshoppers in pulse, cereal and hay crops.

Producers are busy haying, applying pesticides as needed, scouting crops, fixing equipment and hoping for rain. 

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

With very little recent rainfall and a long stretch of hot temperatures, crops are rapidly advancing across the province. Twenty-seven per cent of fall cereals are in the dough maturity stage while 40 per cent of spring cereals are in the heading stage. Sixty per cent of canola and mustard are flowering and 38 per cent of pulse crops are in the podding stage.

The continued lack of moisture combined with hot temperatures last week caused significant damage to many crops. Yield potential and crop quality will be impacted in many regions. Crops are stunted, thin, yellowing in colour and are prematurely drying down in many areas of the province due to the heat stress and lack of moisture. Significant rainfall is needed soon to allow crops to properly fill and avoid irreparable crop damage.

Topsoil moisture levels across the province have continued to deteriorate due to the extended period of hot, dry and windy weather. Cropland topsoil moisture is currently rated as zero per cent surplus, 18 per cent adequate, 51 per cent short and 31 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 13 per cent adequate, 44 per cent short and 43 per cent very short.

Rainfall last week ranged from nil to 21 mm in the Wynyard, Rosetown and Porcupine Plain areas. Much of the province did not receive any rainfall, or received very small amounts that will not make a difference to topsoil moisture levels.

Despite the lack of growth on hay land, livestock producers continue with haying operations. Twenty-two per cent of hay crop is cut, while 14 per cent has been baled or put into silage. Hay quality is currently rated as six per cent excellent, 50 per cent good, 32 per cent fair and 12 per cent poor. Estimated yields so far are considerably lower than anticipated, with many producers indicating a second cut will not happen this year.

Pasture conditions continue to decline with the recent hot temperatures and are now rated as one per cent excellent, 11 per cent good, 32 per cent fair, 38 per cent poor and 18 per cent very poor.

Crop damage this past week is attributed to the extremely dry soil conditions, hot temperatures, strong winds and feeding from gophers and grasshoppers. Some producers have begun to spray for grasshoppers in pulse crops and hay stands.

Farmers are busy applying fungicides if warranted, moving cattle to market, scouting for pests, fixing equipment and hoping for rain.

We would like to remind producers the Farm Stress Line is available for support if you need it. The Farm Stress Line 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.

Northeast Saskatchewan

The extended period of hot and dry weather conditions last week has taken a toll on many crops in the northeastern region. Yield potential has already been impacted with many crops showing symptoms of heat stress. Some crops are thin and stunted and are prematurely advancing and drying down. However, some areas of the region are reporting that the crops remain in good shape but will need rain soon to help them further develop and fill.

Very little rainfall was received last week, ranging from trace amounts to 21 mm in the Porcupine Plain area. The Humboldt, Garrick and Vonda areas reported 1 mm of rain while the Tisdale, Birch Hills and Arborfield areas reported 2 mm.

Topsoil moisture conditions have severely declined in the region and significant rain is needed soon to replenish the topsoil and allow for crops to fill. Crop land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 20 per cent adequate, 53 per cent short and 27 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 20 per cent adequate, 51 per cent short and 29 per cent very short. Crop District 8A is reporting that 38 per cent of the cropland and 45 per cent of the hay land and pasture is very short topsoil moisture at this time.

Haying progress is the most advanced in the province with 31 per cent of the hay crop cut and 11 per cent baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as 10 per cent excellent, 60 per cent good and 30 per cent fair. Yields at this time are expected to be lower than normal, although some wetter areas are hoping for average yields. Pasture conditions are worsening due to the lack of moisture and hot temperatures and are currently rated as two per cent excellent, 15 per cent good, 30 per cent fair, 42 per cent poor and 11 per cent very poor.

The majority of crop damage this past week is due to lack of moisture, strong winds, gophers and insects such as grasshoppers.

Farmers are busy haying, fixing equipment, applying fungicides if warranted and hoping for rain.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Crops in the region are quickly advancing thanks to the recent long stretch of hot and dry weather. However, the hot weather has taken a toll on crops that were already stressed from lack of moisture. There are reports of crops that are prematurely ripening and showing symptoms of heat stress. Some canola fields that were flowering last week have suffered from heat blast damage. Rain is needed soon in the region to help fill later seeded crops and to replenish the topsoil.   

Much of the region did not receive any rainfall, although the Turtleford area reported 20 mm, the Mayfair area 3 mm and the North Battleford and Spiritwood areas 8 mm.

Topsoil moisture conditions are deteriorating thanks to the hot temperatures, strong winds and lack of moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture conditions are rated as zero per cent surplus, 21 per cent adequate, 60 per cent short and 19 per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 23 per cent adequate, 54 per cent short and 23 per cent very short. Crop District 9AW is reporting that 28 per cent of the cropland and 31 per cent of the hay land and pasture is very short topsoil moisture at this time.

Haying operations continue in the region, although yields are expected to be considerably less than normal. Some producers are not expecting a second cut. Twenty-two per cent of the hay crop has been cut and 13 per cent is baled or put into silage. Hay quality is rated as eight per cent excellent, 51 per cent good, eight per cent fair and 33 per cent poor.

Pastures are browning from the heat and the reduced carrying capacity is already impacting livestock. Pasture conditions are currently rated as six per cent excellent, 19 per cent good, 32 per cent fair, 32 per cent poor and 11 per cent very poor.  

Crop damage this week is due to the extreme lack of moisture, strong winds, hot temperatures and pests such as gophers. Some producers have been applying insecticides for grasshoppers in pulse, cereal and hay crops.

Farmers are busy haying, applying pesticides as needed, scouting crops, fixing equipment and hoping for rain.

Ministry of Agriculture
Submitted

The majority of crops in the province are in fair to good condition. Provincially, 56 per cent of the fall cereals, 61 per cent of the spring cereals, 58 per cent of the oilseed crops and 60 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year.

Most of the province received rainfall this week, but it was not enough to improve soil moisture conditions or to offset the effects of the current heat wave. Cooler temperatures and a good wide spread rain is needed for the entire province.

Rainfall in the province ranged from nothing to 28 mm in the Vonda area. Moisture levels sharply declined this week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 31 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short and 27 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 24 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and 40 per cent very short.

Haying operations are off to a delayed start in the province due to cool temperatures and moisture limitations early in the season. For most producers this year’s hay crop did not reach a satisfactory quantity or quality. Hay quality is currently rated as seven per cent excellent, 38 per cent good, 45 per cent fair and 10 per cent poor.

Producers hope that the heat will break. Rain is needed to improve crop and pasture growth, especially in the areas that did not receive much rain prior to this week.

The majority of crop damage reported was from heat, dry winds, extremely dry soil conditions, insects and gophers.

Producers are busy finishing crop herbicide applications, moving cattle to market, scouting for pests and fixing equipment and beginning haying operations in some areas.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Hot, dry conditions across the region have stunted crop development and with more extreme heat in the forecast, crops in the region are going to have very little soil moisture sustain themselves. Without more rain crops are at risk off rapidly maturing or dying off.

Sixty-two per cent of the spring cereals, 59 per cent of the oilseed crops and

67 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 41 per cent of the spring wheat, 26 per of the canola and 26 per cent of the peas being in good condition at this time.

Rain in the northwest region ranged from nil to 20 mm in areas around Duck Lake and 10 mm around the Meadow Lake area. With very little rainfall received in the region, crops are beginning to show signs of stress, have begun to head out and are very short.

Moisture conditions have dropped drastically this week with cropland topsoil moisture rated as zero per cent surplus, nine per cent adequate, eleven per cent short and 80 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 100 per cent short.

Haying has not started, but will be underway soon in the region. Some fields remain too stunted to start haying. Early season cool temperatures and current extreme lack of moisture has slowed hay development. Hay quality is rated as 50 per cent good and 50 per cent fair.

The majority of crop damage this week was from cutworms, gophers, dry conditions and wind.

Producers are busy finishing in-crop herbicide applications and scouting for diseases and other forms of crop damage.

Northeast Saskatchewan

The hot dry windy weather is taking its toll on the crops in the region, causing the crops to be stunted, especially in fields with lighter soils. The region did receive some rain this week but it was very localized and not enough was received to provide relief to crops and pastures.

Regionally, 63 per cent of the fall cereals, 79 per cent of the spring cereals, 63 per cent of the oilseed crops and 84 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year.

Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 67 per cent of the spring wheat, 22 per of the canola and 54 per cent of the peas being in good condition at this time.

Rain in the region ranged from trace to 28 mm in the Vonda area and 20 mm in the Star City area.

Moisture conditions have slightly declined in the region. Crop land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 64 per cent adequate 29 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 47 per cent adequate, 31 per cent short and 22 per cent very short.

Haying has begun in all areas of the northeast region with seven per cent of the hay now cut. Hay quality is rated as zero per cent excellent, 75 per cent good and 25 per cent fair. Continued lack of rainfall and constant heat has slowed hay development in the region and has made some producers hesitate about cutting.

The majority of crop damage this week was from heat, wind, dry conditions and gophers.

Government of Saskatchewan
Submitted

The north east and east central regions saw the most rain, with the highest amount reported in the Spruce Home and Rhein areas with 32 mm. The Barthel area reported 21 mm, the Turtleford and Meadow Lake areas reported 14 mm and Melfort reported 10 mm. Most farmers need more rain, especially in the southern and west central regions of the province, where it is needed to sustain crop and pasture growth.

Crop development is normal for this time of year in most areas, with oilseed crops reported as behind other crops. Provincially, 62 per cent of the fall cereals, 81 per cent of the spring cereals, 70 per cent of the oilseed crops and 81 per cent of the pulse crops are at a normal stage of development for this time of year.

This week, many areas of the province experienced strong dry winds, resulting in crop damage, rapidly drying soils and delayed herbicide application. Delayed herbicide applications have allowed weeds to establish which has resulted in many areas moving past the point of effectively controlling them.

The topsoil moisture across the province is declining due to very high temperatures and non-stop winds. There were small reports of rain in the province with very few areas receiving enough to alleviate the stress caused by extremely dry conditions. Producers reported that dry conditions and cool temperatures have greatly slowed hay and pasture growth, with some concerned about their ability to support cattle throughout the summer without more rain.

Provincially, moisture levels on crop and hay and pasture land have fallen, particularly in areas that received little to no rainfall this week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 56 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and six per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 45 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short and 13 per cent very short.

Moderately warm temperatures have also helped with crop development, and farmers are hopeful with the recent rains that this will continue. The lack of rainfall across the majority of the province has delayed hay land growth and will likely delay the timing of the first cut, as well as reduce the yield.

Dry topsoil moisture conditions have resulted in delayed emergence and development of later and smaller seeded crops. There have been reports of flea beetle damage in most regions, affecting canola development for some.

Farmers have been busy spraying when they can, scouting fields and performing other farm tasks. There have been isolated reports of frost, mainly in the central and northern regions; damage is not yet known, but the crop of most concern is canola. There have also been reports of damage from flea beetle, cutworms, gophers and root rot diseases.

Northeast Region

Most areas of the northeast region received rainfall this past week. Most of the rain was welcome, but farmers in some areas did report that they did not receive enough to improve the moisture conditions of their soils. Areas around Spruce Home received the highest amount of rain in the region this week, with some crop reporters receiving 32 mm. The Garrick area received 15 mm, the Melfort area 10 mm, the Nipawin and Arborfield areas eight mm and the Vonda area five mm.

Moisture conditions have slightly decreased this week, with less land rated as adequate and more rated as short or very short for moisture. Crop land topsoil moisture is rated as nine per cent surplus, 68 per cent adequate, 22 per cent short and one per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as eleven per cent surplus, 69 per cent adequate and 20 per cent short.

Most of the crops in the northeast are behind to normal in their development stage. The cool temperatures in spring have slowed down growth in many areas. Warm temperatures and sunshine are desired to help speed up crop development.

Regionally, 68 per cent of the fall cereals,79 per cent of the spring cereals, 65 per cent of the oilseed crops and 83 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Fourteen per cent of the fall cereals, 14 per cent of the spring cereals, 30 per cent of the oilseed crops and nine per cent of the pulse crops are behind in crop development.

Farmers are busy in-crop spraying, moving cattle out to pasture and starting to think about haying. There were reports of hard frost at the end of the week and crop damage is expected to be severe in some areas. Flea beetles were also an issue in the region, causing damage to newly-emerged canola that had just been reseeded.

Northwest Region

There were scattered showers throughout the northwest region this week, with rainfall ranging from nil to 21 mm in the Barthel area. The Turtleford and Meadow Lake areas received 14 mm, the Mayfair area 12 mm and the Hafford, Speers and St. Walburg areas eight mm.

Due to reduced rainfall this past week, moisture conditions have decreased with less land being rated as surplus and more being rated as short. Crop land topsoil moisture is rated as four per cent surplus, 75 per cent adequate and 21 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 74 per cent adequate, 24 per cent short and two per cent very short.

Development of crops, hay and pasture in the northwest had been slow in previous weeks due to the cool temperatures, high winds and increasingly dry conditions. Now that some moisture and warmer temperatures have been received crops are growing quickly.

Regionally, 87 per cent of the spring cereals, 79 per cent of the oilseed crops and 91 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. Ten per cent of the spring cereals, 18 per cent of the oilseed crops and seven per cent of the pulse crops are behind schedule in their development.

Farmers are busy spraying herbicides when able and assessing damage in canola fields that experienced frost over the past week.

Government of Saskatchewan
Submitted

Provincially, topsoil moisture conditions have increased compared to the previous week due to rainfall. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate, 23 per cent short and three per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 61 per cent adequate, 30 per cent short and eight per cent very short.

Heavy localized rainfall resulted in occasions of flooding and water pooling in low areas of some fields across the province. With the rain came extremely strong winds in some regions as well, resulting in damage to or loss of bins, buildings and crops. Areas of the province that only saw wind and no rain are becoming concerned about dry conditions.

North-east of Old Wives Lake saw the largest localized rain shower, resulting in approximately 208 mm over the course of a few hours, causing road wash outs, flooding, filling of sloughs and dugouts and some crop damage. Other areas that saw large amounts of rainfall this week include Big Beaver with 127 mm, Frobisher with 111 mm and Moosomin with 110 mm. The south-east received the most rainfall over the week but rain was general throughout all regions of the province.

There were reports of localized flooding in areas that received a lot of rainfall in a short amount of time. Winds have also delayed many producers from being able to spray, but they have been busy spraying for weeds and insects as wind conditions and crop stages allow.

Provincially, 78 per cent of the pulse crops, 76 per cent of the spring cereals, 70 per cent of the fall cereals and 66 per cent of the oilseed crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year.

Crop conditions across the province mostly range from fair to good. With the recent rains, producers are hopeful that conditions will improve.

In general, emergence of earlier seeded crops is good, but the lack of moisture and wind in some fields has reduced germination of canola and has resulted in spotty emergence. Areas where germination was very poor might be reseeded if conditions allow, now that soil moisture is ample.

Certain parts of the province that did not see much rainfall last week saw damage from dry soil conditions. Other damage that was reported this week was from flea beetles, gophers and some first signs of seedling diseases.

Northwestern Saskatchewan

The region received steady rainfall that was able to soak in well without causing too much run off or pooling in fields. This rain and the wind that came with it prevented producers from spraying but they are ready continue once conditions allow for it.

The Frenchman Butte and St. Walburg areas received the most rain with 54 mm, the Spiritwood area received 45 mm,
Moisture conditions this week have largely improved in the northwest region, with more fields being rated as surplus. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as seven per cent surplus, 78 per cent adequate and 15 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as five per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate and 23 per cent short.

Regionally, 92 per cent of the pulse crops, 83 per cent of the spring cereals and 78 per cent of the oilseed crops and are at their normal stages of development for this time of year.

Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 93 per cent of the peas, 73 per cent of the spring wheat, 67 per of the canola being in good condition at this time.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, heat and pests such as flea beetles and gophers.

Northeastern Saskatchewan

Some areas of the region reported enough rainfall to allow for runoff to occur, while others indicated what they received was hardly enough to counter the wind and heat during the week. Most fields have been sprayed at least once but those looking to apply a second pass are being delayed by the wind. Re-seeding of canola that was damaged by flea beetle is now complete in many parts of the region.

Areas around Vonda and Melfort received the highest amount of rain in the region this week with 40 mm. The Hudson Bay area received 38 mm, the Birch Hills area 34 mm, the Prince Albert and Spruce Home areas 30 mm and the Nipawin area 22 mm.

Regionally, the moisture conditions improved this week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent surplus, 83 per cent adequate and nine per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent surplus, 74 per cent adequate and 18 per cent short.

In the northeast region, 82 per cent of the fall cereals, 76 per cent of the spring cereals, 72 per cent of the pulse crops and 66 per cent of the oilseed crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year.

Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 87 per cent of the peas, 63 per cent of the spring wheat and 57 per of the canola being in good condition at this time.

The crops, as well as hay land and pasture, are doing well for growth and development in most areas of the region. Some canola fields that have been hit hard by flea beetles were the exception.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to wind, heat and flea beetles. Producers are currently assessing the damage that was caused by the strong winds that occurred in certain areas of the region.

Government of Saskatchewan

Submitted

Seeding is virtually complete throughout the province, with 99 per cent of the crop seeded, with a few fields being seeded for green feed and silage. This is ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) of 97 per cent.

Some areas of the northern regions of the province received good amounts of rain due to a thunderstorm on the weekend; unfortunately, it brought some hail as well. The Cando area reported 40 mm of rain, the Kinistino area 37 mm, the Rosthern area 32 mm, the Sonningdale area 27 mm, the Duck Lake and Spruce Home areas 23 mm. Parts of the southern half of the province saw small localized showers with amounts ranging from two mm to 12 mm.

Even with the rainfall over the weekend, the topsoil moisture conditions in Saskatchewan have deteriorated. Higher amounts of rain in the northern regions have slightly improved moisture conditions in the area, but there are more fields rated as having short or very short moisture in the remaining regions of the province this week.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 56 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and four per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 35 per cent adequate, 53 per cent short and 12 per cent very short. Dry conditions continue to delay pasture and hay land growth and have delayed emergence of smaller seeded crops, such as canola and flax.

Eighteen per cent of the fall cereal crops are reported being in the shot blade stage and 18 per cent are heading, while 51 per cent of the spring cereals are emerging and 38 per cent are tillering. Forty-two per cent of the canola is emerging and 40 per cent is in the seedling stage, along with 30 per cent of flax being in the seedling stage. Forty-eight per cent of pulse crops are emerging and 45 per cent are in the vegetative stage.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to strong winds, dry soil conditions and insects (including flea beetles and cutworms). Some producers are reseeding due to flea beetle and cutworm damage.

Producers have been busy spraying for weed and insect control, hauling grain and moving cattle to pasture.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Seeding is 99 per cent complete in this region, this is ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 96 per cent. Some fields are going to be seeded with green feed once they dry up enough to get back in to.

Many parts of the region received decent amounts of rain this week, the rain is very welcomed by producers and will help improve pasture and crop development.

The Duck Lake area received the most rainfall in the region this week with 23 mm.The Turtleford area received 16 mm, the Spiritwood area 15 mm, the North Battleford area 13 mm and the Glaslyn, Wadena, Barthel and Mayfair areas 10 mm of rain.

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 73 per cent adequate, 25 per cent short and two per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 55 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and four per cent very short.

Fifty-four per cent of the spring cereals are emerging and 36 per cent are tillering. Thirty-eight per cent of canola and mustard is emerging and 49 per cent is in the seedling stage. Forty-four per cent of flax is in the seedling stage. Sixty per cent of the pulse crops are emerging and 38 per cent is in the vegetative stage.

The majority of crop damage this week was caused by light hail, overly dry soil conditions, very dry winds and flea beetles.

Northeast Saskatchewan

Seeding is 99 per cent complete in the region, which is ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 95 per cent. Many producers are wrapping up, but there were delays in seeding for some due to the rainfall received this week. Reseeding has been reported due to flea beetle and cutworm damage.

The Kinistino area received the highest amount of rain this week with 37 mm. The Spruce Home area reported 23 mm, the Arborfield area 19 mm, the Prince Albert area 15 mm, the Melfort area 13 mm and the Tisdale area nine mm.

With the rainfall received this week, moisture conditions were maintained with most fields being rated as largely adequate and a little short for topsoil moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 85 per cent adequate and 15 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 66 per cent adequate 33 per cent short and one per cent very short.

Germination and emergence is even in crops throughout the northeast region, but cool temperatures have slowed development in some areas.

Thirty-eight per cent of the spring cereals are emerging and five per cent are tillering. Forty-eight per cent of canola and mustard is emerging and 45 per cent is in the seedling stage. Twenty-nine per cent of flax is in the seedling stage while 31 per cent of the pulse crops are emerging and sixty-nine per cent are in the vegetative stage.

The majority of crop damage this week was from flea beetles, cutworms, strong winds and some minor hail.

Government of Saskatchewan
Submitted

Dry conditions this week have allowed farmers to nearly complete seeding in all regions of the province. Ninety-seven per cent of the crop is seeded, which is ahead the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 92 per cent.

Ninety-eight per cent of the crop is seeded in the southeast, west-central, northeast and northwest regions, 96 per cent in the southwest and 94 per cent in the east-central.

Provincially, ninety-nine per cent of the field peas, canary seed and chickpeas, 98 per cent of the durum and spring wheat, 96 per cent of the barley, flax, canola and soybeans, 95 percent of lentils and 92 percent of the oats have been seeded to date.

There were small precipitation events throughout the province this week. The Cando area reported the most with 23 mm of precipitation, the Kindersley area reported 20 mm, the Spruce Home area reported 15 mm, the Earl Grey area reported 12 mm and the Rhein area reported 10 mm. This rain was very welcome but more will be needed soon.

Minimal precipitation and strong winds have reduced topsoil moisture conditions in all regions of the province. Rainfall received two weeks ago has helped with pasture conditions in the province, but more is needed. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate, 20 per cent short and eight per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as zero per cent surplus, 58 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and 13 per cent very short.

The majority of crop conditions this week are good. Smaller seed crops, such as canola and mustard, are rated as fair to good. This is mainly due to reduced germination caused by winds and lack of moisture as well as flea beetle pressure. The moisture received over the previous two weeks has allowed later seeded crops to emerge more evenly and earlier seeded crops are now able to develop further. Most crop damage this week was due to strong dry winds, dry soil conditions, flea beetles and gophers.

Now that seeding is almost wrapped up, farmers are busying spraying herbicides, assessing possible frost damage, scouting for early season pests and moving cattle to pasture.

Northeast Saskatchewan

A lot of progress was made this week and seeding is 98 per cent complete. This is up from 85 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 82 per cent. Ninety-nine per cent of the field peas and spring wheat, 98 per cent of barley, flax and canary seed and 97 per cent of oats and canola have been seed in the region.

Parts of the region received light rain showers this week, which was welcome. The Spruce Home area reported the most with 15 mm, the Lake Lenore and Tisdale areas five mm and the Garrick, Humboldt and Bruno areas reported three mm.

Good moisture levels have been maintained in the region due to light precipitation and cooler weather this week. With the recent rains, crop emergence has improved and growth has quickened with the warmer weather. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 88 per cent adequate and 10 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 78 per cent adequate, 20 per cent short and two per cent very short.

Most crops are in good or fair condition in the northeast region; some reseeding of canola is occurring where frost damage was the worst. Crop damage this week was due to wind damaging young seedlings, flea beetles and light frosts.

Producers are busy seeding, spraying when the weather permits, scouting for early season pests and picking rocks.

Northwest Saskatchewan

Seeding is 98 per cent complete, which is up from 87 per cent last week and ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 85 per cent. In the region, 99 per cent of field peas, spring wheat, durum and canola, 96 per cent of barley and 90 per cent of oats have been planted.

Very little rain was received in the region this week. The Mayfair, St. Walburg and Frenchman Butte areas reported the most with three mm and the Barthel and Meadow Lake areas reported two mm. More precipitation is needed as soils will begin to rapidly dry out during the hot days in the forecast.

Pasture conditions have slightly improved in the region with the recent rains over the past couple weeks but growth is still slow. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as two per cent surplus, 79 per cent adequate, 18 per cent short and one per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 60 per cent adequate, 29 per cent short and 11 per cent very short.

In general, crop development is behind due to cooler temperatures earlier in the season, but this should improve with recent weather. Warm temperatures and good moisture conditions are supporting crop growth and crops are germinating and emerging uniformly. The majority of crops are in good condition, with some small areas of the region seeing some reseeding of canola. The crop damage this week that was reported was due to wind, flea beetles and light frosts.

Producers are busy seeding green feed, spraying when possible, moving cattle to pasture and assessing any damage.

For the period of May 18-24

Even with the prolonged rain experienced across the province over the week, producers were still able to seed throughout all regions. Eighty-six per cent of the crop is now seeded in Saskatchewan, which is ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) of 77 per cent for this time of year. Recent rains will greatly improve crop germination and emergence in many parts of the province that were delayed due to dry conditions.

The southwest region is the farthest along with 91 per cent of the crop seeded. Eighty-nine per cent has been seeded in the west-central, 87 per cent seeded in the northwest, 86 per cent seeded in the southeast, 85 per cent seeded in the northeast and lastly, 77 per cent seeded in the east-central region of the province.

Steady rain was experienced this week across the province, especially in the south, which saw some very high rainfalls. The Limerick area received the most with 116 mm. The Indian Head area received 108 mm and the Odessa area received 100 mm. The rain will delay seeding for some producers where soils are slow to drain but it is still very welcome to help crop and pasture growth.
Cool, cloudy days and rain showers have helped improve moisture conditions in many parts of the province. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent surplus, 80 per cent adequate, 11 per cent short and three per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as four per cent surplus, 66 per cent adequate, 26 per cent short and four per cent very short. Pasture conditions are rated as zero per cent excellent, 17 per cent good, 39 per cent fair, 34 per cent poor and 10 per cent very poor.

Earlier seeded crops have started to show good emergence, but cool night time temperatures have slowed growth in some areas. In general, crops are normal in development stages for this time of year, but some crops are behind due to an unusually cool spring and limited moisture. Most of the crop damage this week was due to strong winds, light frosts, limited moisture and flea beetles.

Producers have been busy seeding, moving livestock to pasture, calving and spraying pre-and post-emergent herbicides now that weeds are starting to emerge.

Northwestern Saskatchewan

Eighty-seven per cent of the crop is seeded, which is up from 77 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) of 67 per cent for this time of year. Rainfall in the region delayed seeding for some producers, but it has since continued.

Like the rest of the province, the region saw much need rainfall over the past week. The Spiritwood and Neilburg areas reported the most at 56 mm, the Turtleford area reported 55 mm, the Hafford area reported 53 mm and the Duck Lake and Meadow Lake areas reported 45 mm.

Moisture conditions in the area are good to support crop, pasture and hay land development. Cool temperatures over the past few weeks have greatly reduced pasture growth and slowed crop development. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent surplus and 76 per cent adequate and 16 per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as eight per cent surplus, 62 per cent adequate, 26 per cent short and four per cent very short. Pasture conditions are rated zero per cent excellent, four per cent good, 46 per cent fair, 35 per cent poor and 15 per cent very poor.

Overall, crop development is normal to behind for this time of year. Emergence has been delayed due to cool conditions and lack of moisture. There were reports of light frosts and localized flooding in the region and producers are continuing to assess damage.
Producers are busy seeding, processing and moving cattle into pastures and rock picking.

Northeastern Saskatchewan

Producers have been working hard and there has been huge gains in seeding progress this week, with 85 per cent of the crop currently seeded. This is up from 63 per cent last week and ahead of the five-year average (2016-2020) for this time of year of 62 per cent. Some of the earlier seeded crops have started to emerge.

Rainfall in some areas delayed producers from seeding for a few days but has since continued. Moisture conditions are good is most areas of the region and producers who were delaying seeding for some rain are now out in the fields. The most rainfall was reported in the Melfort and Porcupine Plain areas with 50 mm, the Bruno area reported 46 mm, the Humboldt area 45 mm and the Arborfield and Hudson Bay areas 35 mm.

Moisture conditions in the northeast have improved, with most of the crop, pasture and hay land having enough moisture to support plant germination and growth. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as eleven per cent surplus, 87 per cent adequate and two per cent short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as seven per cent surplus, 76 per cent adequate and 16 per cent short and one per cent very short. Pasture conditions are rated as zero per cent excellent, 43 per cent good, 34 per cent fair 23 per cent poor and one per cent very poor.

Most of the crops are ahead to normal in their developmental stage for this time of year, with early seeded crops emerging. There were reports of crop damage in the form of frost and flooding over the week; low spots in some fields have become submerged. Producers will be out assessing damage over the next couple days.

Producers are busy seeding, spraying as wind conditions allow and waiting for pastures to green up enough to support cattle.