Saskatchewan farmers have been able to seed five per cent of the 2019 crop, compared to the five-year average (2014-18) of three per cent. Field activities such as harrowing, rock picking and fertilizing are taking place. Many producers have indicated that seeding will begin in the coming weeks, once weather conditions improve.
Field conditions across the province have improved with recent moisture. Cropland topsoil is rated as one per cent surplus, 62 per cent adequate, 30 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Topsoil moisture on hay land and pasture is rated as one per cent surplus, 58 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and nine per cent very short.
The dry weather conditions last year continue to affect pasture quality, as conditions are currently rated as one per cent excellent, 25 per cent good, 40 per cent fair, 25 per cent poor and nine per cent very poor.
Much of the southern and western regions received a combination of snowfall and rain this past week, with 73 mm reported in the Shaunavon area. This precipitation created some challenging calving conditions for livestock producers.
SaskPower reminds everyone to take their time and to be aware of overhead power lines crossing fields and farm yards this spring.
A complete, printable version of the Crop Report is available online at www.saskatchewan.ca/crop-report.
Follow the 2019 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKAgriculture.
