Sask. harvest 15 per cent complete, with southwest furthest ahead

Despite scattered storms, harvest in Saskatchewan is 15 per cent complete, up from six per cent a week ago.

According to the latest crop report from the Ministry of Agriculture, which covered the week ending on Monday, the province is ahead of the five- and 10-year averages.

Some crops experienced damage from heavy rain and hail. The report noted that increased heat in some regions has resulted in lower grain yields.

Spring-seeded crops

Provincially, 44 per cent of peas and 50 per cent of lentils have been harvested.

For cereals, 17 per cent of barley, 14 per cent of durum, and 11 per cent of oats have been harvested. Spring wheat is sitting at four per cent harvested.

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Oilseed harvest

When it comes to oilseed crops, 17 per cent of mustard has been harvested, while just two per cent of this year’s canola crop is in the bin.

Rain

Craven had the highest amount of rain in the past week, with 69 millimetres, Strasbourg followed closely at 66 millimetres, and the Caron area received 52 millimetres. According to the report, the Arborfield area received 49 millimetres, while the Rosthern area received 48 millimetres between August 13 and 19.

Crop and pasture conditions

Increasing temperatures, lack of moisture and wind continue to be problems for the province’s crops. Hail and grasshopper damage was reported, in addition to crop lodging.

“Producers are still evaluating sclerotinia stem rot development within their fields as canola matures but many regions are reporting increased amounts of infection this year,” the report noted.

The government reminded producers to be careful during harvest, and noted that the Farm Stress Line is free at 1-800-667-4442.