Farmers are in the field for harvest around West Central; but are moving at a slow pace as only 10 per cent of the region is done harvest to represent the lowest total in the province.
The latest Ministry of Agriculture crop report shared on Thursday noted that harvest is partially slow due to many crops not reaching maturity yet. Early harvested crops are seeing strong results, but overall progress is lagging behind notably with the 10 per cent mark well behind the five-year average of 43 per cent and 10-year average of 34 per cent.
Most of the winter cereal crops and nearly half of pulse crops have been harvested (Screengrab via Ministry of Agriculture)
Topsoil moisture levels declined with little to no rain recorded over the past week around the region. Cropland is rated at one per cent surplus, 71 per cent adequate, and 28 per cent short, while hayland topsoil moisture is reading 62 per cent adequate and 38 per cent short, pasture topsoil moisture very similar at 61 per cent adequate and 39 per cent short.
Once harvest is wrapped up many producers are hoping for a shot of rain that would replenish soil moisture conditions, assist with pasture growth, and mitigate fire risk moving into the fall as stated in the report.
Crop damage during the week once again consisted of minor damage caused by bertha armyworms, and also wind, though the damage was not widespread to keep optimism high with harvest here.
Outside of combine activity, farmers are also busy swathing canola, desiccating, and hauling bales.