Rainfall at the end of June was welcomed by local producers in hopes of improved crop conditions.
According to the latest Crop Report from the Ministry of Agriculture, areas northeast of Humboldt received the highest amount of rainfall between June 24-30.
The Archerwill area received 115 mm of rain, which was the most in the province. The Beatty area followed with 85 mm. The Kinistino and Arborfield areas also received significant rainfall with 75 mm and 72 mm, respectively. Other sections of the region received 25 mm during the week.
As a result of the abundant rainfall, topsoil moisture levels increased for cropland, hayland, and pasture. Topsoil moisture for cropland is now nine per cent surplus, 87 per cent adequate, and four per cent short. Hayland levels are 10 per cent surplus, 71 per cent adequate, and 19 per cent short. Finally, topsoil moisture for pastures is a nine per cent surplus, 72 per cent adequate, and 19 per cent short.
Recent rainfall has allowed crops to be at the normal stage of development for this time of year despite the dry spring conditions. Thirty-four per cent of fall cereal crops are ahead of normal stages which makes them the most advanced crop type. Noticeable portions of spring cereal and perennial forage crops are ahead with 17 per cent and 14 per cent of these crops are ahead of normal stages, respectively. Perennial and annual forage crops are the furthest behind all crop types with 28 per cent of these crops being behind normal stages. Nearly all crops are growing in fair to good conditions.
The rainfall isn’t all good news for producers as it has caused minor to severe crop damage in low spots where water has accumulated. There have also been reports of wind and hail damage, which has been experienced in other regions throughout the province. Some areas have missed any rainfall over the last few weeks, and crops are suffering minor to moderate damage from dry conditions as a result.
Haying season is underway in the area. Currently, eight per cent of hay crops have been cut, two per cent have been baled or silaged, and 90 per cent is still standing. Hay in the northeast is some of the highest quality in the province this year with 28 per cent excellent quality, 33 per cent good, and 39 per cent fair.