Seeding is nearly three-quarters complete, with producers across the province reporting 72 per cent of crops in the ground, according to the latest crop report from the Ministry of Agriculture.
That marks an increase of 23 per cent from the previous week. However, progress was slowed by rain in the southern and eastern regions of the province.
Seeding remains well ahead of the five-year average of 60 per cent and the 10-year average of 64 per cent.
“There are a few pockets in the northwest part of the province and along the Saskatchewan–Alberta border that are short in topsoil moisture, and producers in those areas are certainly hoping for rain to recharge some of those soil moisture conditions,” said crops extension specialist Tyce Masich.
Farmers in the Moose Jaw area and the southwest are seeing the most progress, with 89 per cent of crops in the ground as many producers near completion.
“A lot of producers have already finished seeding or are just in the home stretch, getting the last few acres of canola in,” Masich said.
Most pulse crops are in, with field peas leading the way at 92 per cent. Lentils are 90 per cent complete, followed by chickpeas at 83 per cent.
Oilseeds have reached the halfway point. Mustard is 84 per cent complete, followed by canola at 58 per cent and flax at 50 per cent.
Parts of southeastern Saskatchewan were hit hardest by rainfall over the past week, receiving between 100 and 120 millimetres. The Lampman area recorded the most rain, with 139 millimetres.
The recent rain has improved topsoil moisture conditions. Depending on the region, topsoil moisture is rated between 60 and 70 per cent adequate.
Seeding remains the main focus for producers, though some have moved on to spraying, land rolling and picking rocks.
Masich added that, if dry conditions hold over the next couple of weeks, more farmers are expected to wrap up seeding.
“Things are coming along nicely, and the moisture that much of the province received this past week definitely has farmers cautiously optimistic about the growing season ahead,” he said.
Livestock producers, meanwhile, are continuing to move animals to pasture for the season.
Producers are reminded to be aware of power lines and other hazards while transporting large equipment. Motorists should also take extra precautions when encountering farm machinery on highways.