Southeast Saskatchewan producers are catching up in the fields after a stretch of favourable conditions, but harvest remains behind the seasonal average.
Harvest in the region is now 33 per cent complete, behind the five-year average of 41 per cent and the 10-year average of 43 per cent.
Reporters say yields appear decent so far, with more detailed data expected in next week’s report.
Producers are wrapping up harvest of winter cereals and pulse crops, with 92 per cent of winter wheat and 86 per cent of fall rye combined. Field peas are 87 per cent complete and lentils 83 per cent.
Spring cereals are also coming off, with 46 per cent of barley, 32 per cent of oats, 31 per cent of durum and 25 per cent of spring wheat harvested.
The first oilseed crops are being taken off as well, led by mustard and soybeans at 20 per cent complete.
Moisture conditions remain a concern. Cropland topsoil is rated 55 per cent adequate, 42 per cent short and three per cent very short. Hay land is 45 per cent adequate, 52 per cent short and three per cent very short. Pastures are five per cent surplus, 35 per cent adequate, 56 per cent short and four per cent very short.
Grain producers are hoping for dry weather to finish harvest, followed by timely rain to rebuild soil reserves and improve pasture conditions.
Crop damage was minimal last week, with only isolated reports of wind lodging, wildlife and waterfowl feeding, and grasshopper damage.