Much of southeast Saskatchewan received significant rainfall last week, according to the latest crop report from the provincial Ministry of Agriculture. While the rain did help improve topsoil moisture conditions, storms associated with the rainfall at times brought some hail and strong winds, both of which were named as causes of some damage.
In-crop spraying continued across the region as weather permitted, and haying operations are getting underway as the conditions allow. Storm systems that swept through parts of the southeast caused hail damage to crops, with producers now assessing the severity of the impact and monitoring recovery.
Rainfall totals varied widely, with the highest amounts reported near Balcarres with 58 mm and Glenavon with 57 mm. The Weyburn area received 28.4 mm of precipitation, according to Environment Canada. However, most areas in the southeast recorded enough rainfall to significantly boost topsoil moisture levels.
Topsoil moisture on cropland is now rated at 5 per cent surplus, 86 per cent adequate, and 9 per cent short. For hay and pasture land, conditions remain mostly adequate, although 19 per cent of hayland and 21 per cent of pastures are still considered short of moisture.
Crop development across the region remains generally on schedule. Perennial forage crops are the most advanced, with 11 per cent reported ahead of normal stages. Oilseeds are seeing the most delays, with 17 per cent behind typical development. Spring cereals are reported as 11 per cent behind, while pulse crops and annual forages remain mostly on track.
In the parts of the southeast that have seen reduced rainfall so far this year, 17 per cent of seeded acres are reportedly struggling. Around 26 per cent of forage crops could see reduced yields, and 30 per cent of pastures may face a drop in carrying capacity.
Livestock water supplies are holding steady, with 75 per cent of sources considered secure for the coming months. While 14 per cent of producers report moderate shortages, only 11 per cent are concerned about future water availability.
Pest activity continues to pose a challenge. Flea beetles are causing minor to moderate damage in several areas, with some producers taking control measures. Cutworms, grasshoppers, aphids, and pea leaf weevils were also reported. A few cases of disease-related crop damage have begun to emerge.