Recent rainfall has helped move crop development in southwest Saskatchewan closer to normal for this time of year, but dry patches and topsoil shortages remain a concern across much of the region — including around Moose Jaw.
“Conditions were variable across the province this week,” said Kim Stonehouse, crops extension specialist with the Ministry of Agriculture. “Some areas received heavy storms, others limited rain, and everything in between — including hail.”
Despite weather fluctuations, the southwest is now reporting some of the most advanced crop development in the province.
Rainfall totals in the Moose Jaw region ranged from 18 mm to over 30 mm, with Division 7 (which includes Moose Jaw, Caron, and Eyebrow) recording consistent moisture. Thanks to these rains, cropland topsoil moisture is now rated at 1% surplus, 54% adequate, and just 14% very short. Hayland and pasture moisture remains more stressed, with 24–30% very short.
Stonehouse noted that while soil moisture is still below ideal in many areas, the recent bump helped.
“Topsoil conditions in the southwest have improved somewhat,” he said. “This is really important — especially for regions where pasture and hayland moisture have been critically low.”
Crop stages catching up — and even surging ahead
Southwest crops are now the furthest ahead in development compared to other parts of the province. According to the report, spring cereals are 20% ahead of schedule, pulse crops are 12% ahead, and perennial forages lead the pack with 24% of acres ahead of normal development.
Cooler temperatures helped slow crop development slightly this week — a good sign in areas where rapid growth might otherwise outpace moisture and compromise yields.
“When crops grow too fast, it usually means they’re running out of water,” Stonehouse explained. “Slowing that pace can protect yield potential.”
Alongside dry patches, some fields are also contending with minor hail damage, flea beetles, and persistent gopher activity. Farmers in the region are continuing in-crop herbicide and insecticide applications as conditions allow.
Frost was reported in some parts of the southwest but is expected to have minimal long-term impact, depending on the crop type and growth stage at the time.
Stonehouse emphasized that while this week brought some relief, more consistent moisture and warm weather will be key heading into July.
“Oilseed crops are the furthest behind provincially, and a few areas are still facing significant pasture stress,” he said. “Warmer temperatures and continued precipitation are needed to help the crop progress to yield.”
Livestock water supply remains a concern in the southwest, with 38% of producers reporting moderate to severe concerns heading into the summer.
For the full Saskatchewan Crop Report, visit saskatchewan.ca/crop-report.