Saskatchewan‘s harvest is running well behind its usual pace, with just 11 per cent of the crop combined as of Aug. 24.
That’s far short of the five-year average of 25 per cent and the 10-year average of 21 per cent, according to the province’s latest crop report.
The Ministry of Agriculture said producers dealt with a mix of conditions last week. Some regions saw rain and strong winds, while high humidity stalled combines in others.
Dry weather in many parts of the province helped push crops toward maturity and kept some harvest efforts moving.
The Round Hill area recorded the heaviest rainfall in the province at 81 millimetres. The Emerald and Meeting Lake areas followed with 76 mm and 68 mm.
Despite the wet pockets, provincial topsoil moisture held steady. Cropland moisture sits at 49 per cent adequate, with 37 per cent short and 10 per cent very short.
Winter cereals are furthest along. Fall rye harvest is 69 per cent complete and winter wheat is at 60 per cent.
Progress is slower for spring-seeded crops. Canola harvest sits at just one per cent, while lentils lead the pulse crops at 48 per cent complete.
Pasture conditions have improved in recent weeks thanks to rainfall, with 39 per cent of pastures now rated good and three per cent rated excellent.
The ministry said dry conditions caused most of the minor crop damage reported last week. Sclerotinia stem rot and bertha armyworms also affected some canola crops, along with localized damage from aphids and gophers.
With combines rolling across the province, drivers are reminded to use caution around farm equipment on rural roads. Producers are urged to take fire prevention precautions while working in dry fields.
The Farm Stress Line offers confidential support to producers at 1-800-667-4442.
Read more: Crop Report: Lloyd area seeding hits 98% as province nears finish
