Released on September 26, 2013
Harvest is progressing well despite recent rains in many areas of the province. Saskatchewan farmers now have 71 per cent of the 2013 crop combined, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture’s Weekly Crop Report. Twenty-one per cent is swathed or ready to straight-cut. The five-year average (2008-2012) for this time of year is 60 per cent combined and 23 per cent swathed or ready to straight-cut.
Harvest progress is most advanced in the west-central region, with 86 per cent of the crop combined. Sixty-two per cent is combined in the southeast; 79 per cent in the southwest; 60 per cent in the east-central region; 68 per cent in the northeast and 73 per cent in the northwest.
Of the crop that has been harvested, average to above-average yields are being reported in most areas; however, they vary from region to region. Spring wheat average yields are reported as 46 bushels per acre, durum 44 bushels per acre, barley 68 bushels per acre, canola 38 bushels per acre, and peas 43 bushels per acre.
Rainfall ranged throughout the province from nil to 61 mm. Provincially, topsoil moisture on crop land is rated as three per cent surplus, 53 per cent adequate, 31 per cent short and 13 per cent very short. Topsoil moisture on hay and pasture land is rated as two per cent surplus, 50 per cent adequate, 34 per cent short and 14 per cent very short.
Little crop damage was reported, although wind and heavy rain have damaged some crops. Light frost was also reported throughout the province; however, damage is expected to be minimal as the crops have matured enough.
Farmers are busy swathing, combining and hauling bales.
Follow the 2013 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKGovAg.
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For more information, contact:
Shannon Friesen
Agriculture
Weyburn
Phone: 306-848-2856