Seeding virtually complete in most areas of the province

Saskatchewan Agriculture says seeding is at 98 per cent this week, just slightly ahead of the five-year average of 97 per cent.

In the southeast and southwest areas of the province, 99 per cent of the crop is in the ground. In the east-central region, 98 per cent is seeded, and in the west-central and northwest regions, 97 per cent of the crop is in the ground.

Most regions of the province received some rainfall this week, and the northwest and west-central areas received a substantial amount. There were reports of localized flooding in some regions.

The area around St. Walburg received the highest amount of rain this week, with 154 millimetres, and has received the most precipitation since April 1 (234 mm total).

Topsoil conditions in the province have improved thanks to the rainfall. Higher amounts of rain in the west-central region have significantly improved moisture conditions in the area, but there are more fields rated as having surplus moisture in the northern regions.

Some farmers have been reseeding due to flea beetle and cutworm damage. Farmers have been busy spraying for weed and insect control, hauling grain and moving cattle to pasture.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to strong winds, dry soil conditions, insects and localized flooding.