Near Record Pea and Lentil Harvest Forecast

VANCOUVER - Aug 2/05 - SNS -- Canadian field pea and lentil may again set production records this year, judging from provincial level crop production forecasts from Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food.

In its latest crop report, the provincial department said current conditions indicate Saskatchewan farmers will harvest 30.125 million metric tons (MT) of grains, oilseeds, and specialty crops, 26% above the 10 year average.

"Harvest operations are just getting underway in some southern and central areas. Crops being combined include winter wheat, oats, fall rye, and peas. . . . Some concerns for realizing yield expectations include heat and drought stress, frost, and disease.

"Provincial crop yield estimates range from 74% to 181% of the 10-year average. There is variability both at the local and regional levels. Yield prospects for many crops are highest in the northeast and lowest in the southwest," Saskatchewan Agriculture said.

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