Seeding progress has more than doubled in the region and 68 per cent of the crop is now in the ground.
This is up from 31 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year (2014-2018) average of 46 per cent for this time of year, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s weekly crop report. Eighty-one per cent of the spring wheat, 65 per cent of the barley, 60 per cent of the canola, 93 per cent of the lentils and 95 per cent of the field peas have been seeded.
The majority of the region did not receive significant rainfall last week, with most areas reporting no rain to only trace amounts. The Langenburg area reported 7 mm, the Rama area 3 mm, the Wadena area 2.5 mm and the Meacham area 12 mm. The Esterhazy area has received the most precipitation since April 1 (37 mm), according to the report.
Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 33 per cent adequate, 45 per cent short and 22 per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 24 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and 36 per cent very short. Rainfall would be beneficial to pastures and hay land in the region, as growth has been limited.
Crop emergence has been slow due to the cool conditions and lack of moisture. Overnight temperatures were below freezing this past week, though little crop damage was reported, as the majority of crops have not emerged yet. There are reports of winterkill on fall-seeded crops.
Farmers are busy seeding, controlling weeds and moving cattle to pasture.
