Dry conditions were the main story of the West Central Saskatchewan crop report for July 22-28. The conditions allowed haying to progress nicely, while cool weather during the week helped flowering crops, just in time for rain to start August that will aid with crop yields, aid hay land growth, and improve pastureland.
The lack of moisture hasn't affected crop conditions, however, actually going up in quality from the last report. Most crops are rated from fair to good, with a good chunk of crops jumping to the excellent range.
Haying operations have followed a similar pattern, the limited rainfall actually helping with progress at 82 per cent now cut with 56 per cent already put up as silage. Quality is strong with conditions rated 10 per cent excellent, 60 per cent good, 23 per cent fair and seven per cent as poor. Some producers could be working on a second cut, but most are attempting to finish up quickly before harvest.
Thankfully the trend of dry weather has been bucked so far to start August. Even without specific rainfall totals, the big dump of moisture received this past weekend around West Central will no doubt help crops with seed filling while also improving topsoil moisture.
The previous dry conditions only resulted in minor to moderate crop damage, the rest coming from aphids, flea beetles, and lygus bugs. It's been a battle against the bugs, but producers are at the stage where they are considering if they are passed actionable thresholds.
While the plants continue to progress, harvest prep will be the biggest thing on the calendar for early August. It's important to be ready to go in the field, and that's not just limited to getting the crop out of the ground. It's the perfect time to build out necessary safety precautions and preventative fire measures.
Mental health is also top of mind this time of year. The Farm Stress Line is available to provide support to producers toll free at 1-800-667-4442.