Released on July 30, 2007
Pre-harvest crop production estimates indicate that Saskatchewan farmers are expected to harvest 23.9 million tonnes of grains, oilseeds and specialty crops according to the crop reporters who provide the information for Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report. This is close to the ten-year average production. Yield projections will continue to be monitored throughout the harvest period and new estimates will be provided if production estimates change significantly. Statistics Canada's July production estimate will be released on August 23, 2007.
Crop reporters had expected better yields earlier in the season, but the recent heat and lack of precipitation have impacted expectations. There is yield variability both at the local and regional levels. Many crop reporters indicate that they will have a better read on yields once combines are in the field.
Harvest operations are just getting underway, with less than one per cent of the 2007 crop combined and two per cent lying in swath or ready to straight combine. Crops being combined include winter wheat, oats, barley, fall rye, canola, mustard, lentils and peas.
Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay and pasture land continue to deteriorate. Less than 40 per cent of the reporters rate topsoil moisture as adequate. Southern areas report highest percentage of very short topsoil moisture ratings.
The hot, dry weather has allowed for continued haying progress in many areas. Eighty-three per cent of the first-cut and less than one per cent of the second-cut hay crop has been baled or put into silage. Over half of reporters do not expect to harvest a second cut.
Heat and drought stress caused the most crop damage during the past week. Other sources of damage include hail, wind, insects, disease and gophers.
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For more information, contact:
Terry Bedard
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Regina
Phone: 306-787-5956
Email: tbedard@agr.gov.sk.ca