West-Central Saskatchewan

Crop Districts 6B – Hanley, Outlook, Loreburn, Saskatoon and Arelee areas;
Crop District 7A – Rosetown, Kindersley, Eston, Major;
Crop District 7B - Kerrobert, Macklin, Wilkie and Biggar areas

For the Period May 19 to 25, 2020

Eighty per cent of the crop is seeded, which is on track with the five-year average of 79 per cent (2015-2019) for this time of year. Rain showers delayed farmers in some areas, but most were able to continue seeding fairly quickly. There were strong winds throughout the region, which prevented some farmers from being able to spray.

Most of the west-central region received some rain this week, which was good for crop and pasture land. The Cando area received the highest amount of rain in the province with 100 mm. The Langham area received 54 mm, the Rosthern area 50 mm, the Netherhill area 26, the Phippen area 25 mm and the Harris and Smiley areas 19 mm.

Rain received this week improved moisture conditions in the region. Cropland topsoil moisture rated as 81 per cent adequate, 18 per cent short and one per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 69 per cent adequate, 30 per cent short and one per cent very short.

Cool overnight temperatures and dry conditions have slowed pasture and hay land growth. Recent rains will improve pasture conditions, but producers indicate that more will be needed soon. Pasture conditions are rated as six per cent excellent, 44 per cent good, 36 per cent fair, 13 per cent poor and one per cent very poor.

Overall, crops are normal-to-behind in development for this time of year. Similar to pastures, the cool overnight temperatures and dry conditions have slowed growth of some crops. Most of the crop damage this week is due to strong winds, light frost and localized flooding. Farmers are continuing to assess damage from frost and watching for flea beetles.

Farmers are busy seeding, spraying if wind conditions permit, rolling pulse crops and moving cattle to pasture.