Despite occasional patchy rainfall and small cell thunderstorms that have dropped intense downpours in isolated areas in east central Saskatchewan, conditions have been drier in the opening week of July.
Saskatchewan Agriculture’s weekly crop report shows some crop yellowing in low lying areas and those spots impacted by isolated rainfall events. With the heat, sunshine and humidity in play, many crops are reported to be in overall good condition.
Among those tagged with rain, the highest rainfall recorded fell in the Frobisher area in southeast Saskatchewan at 52 mm, followed by the Regina area at 51 mm. The Langenburg and Macklin areas both received 50 mm over the past week.
Reduced precipitation and increased temperatures have reduced the topsoil moisture reserves throughout many regions of the province. Currently, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as seven per cent surplus, 83 per cent adequate, eight per cent short and two per cent very short. Hayland topsoil moisture is reported at five per cent surplus, 84 per cent adequate, nine per cent short and two per cent very short. Pasture topsoil moisture is three per cent surplus, 80 per cent adequate, 14 per cent short and three per cent very short.
The moist and relatively cool early growing season has meant that canola and spring cereals are still the furthest behind the normal stages of development for this time of year. Those crops are playing catch up with the recent warm spell.
Drier conditions have progressed haying operations in many regions of the province, but a few areas are still delayed due to frequent isolated rainfall events. Nineteen per cent of the hay crop has received its first cut with six per cent baled or silaged. Hay quality is rated as 30 per cent excellent, 59 per cent good, 10 per cent fair and one per cent poor. Producers note the higher humidity conditions are causing hay drying time to take a little longer than usual.
There was minor to moderate damage reported from isolated hail events over the past week.
Producers also note aphids and cabbage seedpod weevils are beginning to appear in some regions of the province. With the frequent moisture and currently humid conditions, disease development has been observed in various crops including pulses and cereals.
The Ag Ministry advises that the growing season is a stressful time of year and producers are reminded to take all safety precautions in all the work they do. The Farm Stress Line is there to help by providing support for producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.