Harvest is nearly complete in the region, with 83 per cent finished, despite delays caused by precipitation over the past week. This is an increase from 77 per cent reported the previous week and is ahead of the five-year average of 77 per cent and the 10-year average of 76 per cent.
As producers work to finish harvest, they are also busy with fall weed control spraying, harrowing, baling, hauling bales, cleaning corrals, and fencing. Some producers have begun their winter cereal seeding operations.
Harvest is complete for winter wheat, triticale, lentils, field peas, and chickpeas, with fall rye nearly complete. Durum wheat is ahead in harvest progress for spring-seeded cereals at 95 per cent complete, followed by barley at 94 per cent, and both spring wheat and oats at 90 per cent. Canary seed is currently at 68 per cent complete in the southeast.
Mustard leads the oilseed crops at 91 per cent, followed by canola at 67 per cent and flax at 59 per cent. Soybeans are at 33 per cent, making them the furthest behind.
Recent moisture has improved topsoil moisture and conditions, helping to green up pastures. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated at one per cent surplus, 68 per cent adequate, 27 per cent short, and four per cent very short. Producers are hoping for more precipitation following harvest to assist in replenishing depleted topsoil moisture.
Producers are also evaluating livestock water supplies, with 69 per cent indicating no shortages occurring or anticipated. Meanwhile, 26 per cent reported a moderate shortage, and five per cent are anticipating a shortage depending on conditions throughout the fall. Additionally, 87 per cent of producers reported no concerns with water quality for their livestock.
Crop damage over the past week was primarily due to wind, waterfowl, and wildlife, with minor to moderate damage reported. Grasshoppers are still present in the region, although overall damage is minor. Producers note that recent rain has added challenges for lodged crops, along with concerns about reduced crop quality for unharvested crops.