Warmer and drier conditions helped crops progress across northwest Saskatchewan last week, including the Lloydminster area, and let haying operations move forward.
Localized storms still caused damage to crops and property in parts of the region. High humidity has raised the risk of crop disease, and producers are spraying to keep it in check while also prepping equipment for harvest.
The Meadow Lake area saw the most rain in the region at 73 millimetres during a localized storm. Rabbit Lake received 45 millimetres and Medstead received 30 millimetres.
Topsoil moisture eased slightly with the warmer weather but remains mostly adequate. Cropland is rated 8 per cent surplus and 92 per cent adequate. Hayland sits at 12 per cent surplus and 88 per cent adequate. Pasture is rated 3 per cent surplus and 97 per cent adequate.
Crop development in the region is largely unchanged from previous weeks. Fall cereals, perennial forages and pulse crops are mostly at normal stages. Annual forages, oilseeds and spring cereals remain furthest behind.
Haying has moved slowly due to rain and damp conditions. Seventy per cent of the regional hay crop is still standing, with 14 per cent baled or silaged and 16 per cent cut and waiting. Hay quality is rated 29 per cent excellent, 45 per cent good and 26 per cent fair.
Producers reported minor to severe damage from flooding, along with minor to moderate damage from hail and wind. Gophers continue to cause damage in some areas, and producers are now watching for bertha armyworm.
Provincewide, warmer and drier conditions also helped plants catch up, though localized thunderstorms brought hail, wind and some flooding elsewhere. The Bienfait area recorded the heaviest rain at 126 millimetres.
Provincial haying reached the halfway mark, 43 per cent remains standing, 29 per cent cut and 28 per cent baled or silaged. Hay quality provincewide is rated 24 per cent excellent, 65 per cent good, 10 per cent fair and 1 per cent poor.
Root rot and other diseases continue to cause damage in areas that stayed wet through the season, and strong winds have led to some cereal crops lodging.
Producers with questions can call the Agriculture Knowledge Centre toll free at 1-866-457-2377. Producers experiencing stress can reach the Farm Stress Line toll free at 1-800-667-4442.
Read more: Warm, dry week helps Sask. crops catch up
