The warm temperatures and lack of rain in most parts of the southeast have been taking a toll on the crops in southeast Saskatchewan over the past week. This includes heat stress in some crops, as well as reduced yield potential.
The latest edition of the weekly crop report from the provincial Ministry of Agriculture, released Thursday morning, stated some of the crops in the southeast are quickly drying down, meaning some producers may be starting harvest in a week or two. Those with later seeded crops, though, are hoping for more rain to ensure maximum seed fill.
The heat has also started some regions' desiccation of lentil and pea crops.
In terms of rainfall in the past week, Indian Head and Glenavon reported more than 30 millimetres each, however, the rest of the southeast received between two and six millimetres. As a result, the topsoil moisture levels have deteriorated even further.
The report shows the cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 15 percent adequate, and 85 percent short or very short. For pasture and hay land, the situation is worse, with just eight percent rated as adequate, 34 percent short, and 58 percent very short.
The dry conditions have meant haying has gone along reasonably well, but for most producers, there will be just one cut. Just five percent of the hay crop is still standing, with 77 percent baled or in silage. The yields are lower than last year, but quality is high with 81 percent rated as good. Those with lower yields, however, will be looking for alternate feed sources.
There was some crop damage reported in the past week. The primary cause was drought stress and heat stress. Some pests are also causing issues, including gophers and grasshoppers.