Harvest progress behind average according to latest crop report

The east and west-central areas are at 11 and 6 per cent respectively.

Progress has been slower in the northern regions, with just three per cent of the crops off in the northeast, and two per cent in the northwest.

Most of the harvesting has been of winter cereals and pulse crops.

Over half of the winter cereals are in the bin, with 70 per cent for winter wheat and 66 per cent for fall rye.

Meanwhile, 45 per cent of peas and 35 per cent of lentils are now complete.

Spring cereals are also being taken off, like triticale at 42 per cent, barley at 17 per cent, and durum at 13 per cent.

Progress has been minimal on spring wheat, oats, and chickpeas.

Winter wheat and fall rye quality is lower than the 10-year average.

The Nipawin area saw the most rain last week with 42 millimetres, with North Battleford at 30.

Topsoil moisture levels are at 77 percent adequate, hayland is at 66 percent adequate, and pasture topsoil moisture is at 60 percent adequate.

Meanwhile, 43 percent of pastures are in good condition, 5 per cent in excellent condition, while 38 are fair, 12 are poor, and 2 are very poor.

Most damage to canola crops has been from bertha armyworms, but damage was not widespread.

Damage also came from grasshoppers, wildlife, and strong winds and hail from last week’s storms.

Residents are reminded to pay attention to farm machinery on the highway.

Farmers can always access the Farm Stress line with support toll-free at 1-800-667-4442.

by Cam Lee