Despite some higher rain totals over the past week, the Ministry of Agriculture's weekly crop report for west-central Saskatchewan is sharing that moisture is doing very little to improve growing conditions in the region, though the rain did provide relief in the fact that crops can hold on a little longer.
Leading the way was the Coleville area at 46 mm of rain. That was nearly double the amount of second place Smiley receiving 25 mm, and the Netherhill area coming in at 20. The rain was much needed and thankfully didn't come at a cost with how it was received.
"Large amounts of rain over a short period of time combined with very dry soil resulted in flooding of some fields, which will likely dry up very quickly and crops will be largely unaffected."
Another major aspect of this week's crop report had to do with pastures and hay land continuing to deteriorate, noting that producers could begin cutting hay soon before it loses too much biomass. According to the government agency hay land is rated as 17 per cent adequate, 50 per cent short and 33 per cent very short, and pastureland levels are currently 16 per cent adequate, 53 per cent short and 31 per cent very short.
Judging by the downtrend in those specific areas it's not a surprise that topsoil moisture levels are remaining extremely low. It's similar for crop land, things rated as 22 per cent adequate, 57 per cent short and 21 per cent very short in the latest report.
Moderate to severe crop damage is being reported due to dry, hot, windy conditions. Minor to severe damage was noted due to hail and flooding, and damage done by pests has thankfully remained low.
Even with those conditions crops are still growing normally, though an increasing number are dropping in quality quickly, struggling to maintain growth without adequate moisture. The report also noted that crops planted on "sandier soils or hill tops" are showing signs of stress as well.
"Crop conditions range from poor to good, with the larger portion of crops being rated as fair. Crop conditions will continue to decrease if rainfall remains scarce."
A hefty amount of rain this weekend will likely continue to assist in the relief department. More than 75 mm could fall in areas around west-central Saskatchewan, likely postponing activity in the field this weekend as producers keep on going this growing season.