With seeding completed, producers around the Humboldt area were happy to see cooler temperatures and rainfall over the last week according to the latest crop report from the Ministry of Agriculture.
Due to the limited precipitation in the spring, crop stands remain patchy and uneven leading to varied crop stages.
The Bruno area led the region in terms of rainfall, receiving 40 mm. There were several other areas that received heavy rainfall over the week; this will help crops in the region but also resulted in flooding and hailstorms.
Topsoil moisture ratings for the region improved following the rain. Cropland topsoil moisture ratings are now three per cent surplus, 54 per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and five per cent very short. Hayland is rated as 52 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Finally, pasture land is rated as 48 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and twelve per cent very short. Producers are hoping the forecast of rain over the next few days holds up to help improve soil conditions.
Even with the dry start, crops are at a normal stage of development for this time of year. Crop conditions range from poor to good, and without more rain, crops will quickly deteriorate and lose their yield potential.
There was minor to moderate crop damage reported due to heat, wind, and dry conditions. Large hailstorms also caused havoc to the crops ranging from minor to severe damage.
Minor to moderate crop damage occurred due to flea beetles with some reports of more severe damage. Minor grasshopper, cutworm and pea leaf weevil damage was noted within the region as well.