Released on June 14, 2004
Most of the province received two or three days of rainfall during the past week, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.Rainfall averages for the period of June 6th to June 12th ranged from 43 mm in the southeast to 64 mm in the northwest. Individual amounts were reported up to 107 mm.
Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay and pasture land improved in all regions. Almost all areas of the grainbelt report adequate to surplus moisture with the eastern side of the province reporting the majority of the surplus conditions.
Most crops are reported to be in good to excellent condition, although crop development remains below average.
Spring cereals are rated at about 33 per cent of normal development, with oilseeds at 29 per cent, pulse crops at 38 per cent and fall cereal crops at 48 per cent. A return to more seasonable temperatures will aid crop development.
Flooding was the main source of crop damage during the past week and was reported in all regions. Insects were the second most common source, and included grasshoppers, flea beetles and wire worms. Other more isolated sources of crop damage include drought, wind, hail, frost, disease and gophers.
Seeding is behind in a number of southeastern areas, with as much as 40 per cent remaining to be planted. Wet field conditions have delayed herbicide and insecticide spraying. Some re-seeding has taken place due to poor germination and crusted soil. Reporters anticipate more re-seeding will be necessary due to flooding and water erosion.
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For More Information, Contact:
| Terry Bédard Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-5956 |