Spring seeding is underway across Saskatchewan, but just barely.
Provincial crop data shows only 3 per cent of the 2026 crop is in the ground as of May 4. That’s well behind the five-year average of 12 per cent and the 10-year average of 13 per cent.
For producers near Lloydminster, the news is bleaker. The east-central, northeast and northwest Saskatchewan regions are all reporting that seeding has not yet begun. Flooding, frozen soils and washed-out roads are the main barriers.
The southwest region is the furthest ahead at 7 per cent seeded, followed by the southeast at 5 per cent. Where seeding has started, cereal crops are leading the way – triticale at 16 per cent complete, durum at 10 per cent. Pulses and oilseeds are just getting underway.
Limited rainfall over the past week is actually helping in some ways – it’s allowing saturated fields to start drying out. The highest recorded rainfall was 8 millimetres near Rockglen.
Provincial topsoil moisture is largely adequate at 69 per cent, with 24 per cent reporting surplus conditions and 7 per cent short.
Most crop reporters – 81 per cent – say spring runoff should be enough to replenish dugouts and water bodies. But in the west-central and southwest regions, the picture is more concerning. In west-central Saskatchewan, 61 per cent of respondents said runoff would not be sufficient. In the southwest, 45 per cent said the same.
Where equipment can move, farmers are staying busy with pre-seeding spraying, harrowing and rock picking. Livestock producers are wrapping up calving and moving cattle to pasture.
The provincial government is reminding producers that the Farm Stress Line is available around the clock. The service connects producers, their families and farm employees with mental health professionals who understand farming pressures. The toll-free number is 1-800-667-4442. Calls are confidential and free.
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