Saskatchewan Harvest Nearly Complete

VANCOUVER - Oct 15/08 - SNS -- In its final harvest update for 2008, Saskatchewan Agriculture said 97% of this year's crops were harvested as the week got underway, compared to 96% by this time last year and the recent five-year average of 92% complete.

The northeast remains furthest along at 99% complete, followed by the southwest and west central regions with 98% harvested. The northwest has the most crop left to harvest, but is still reporting 91% complete.

Last week opened with rainfall events which delayed harvesting and fall field work, but brought needed moisture to some areas. This week began with heavy snowfall in southern crop districts, which halted harvest progress in those area. Within the specialty crop sector, chickpeas were most affected by the snowfall as the harvest is only 80% complete, versus 93% at this time last year and the recent five-year average of 92% in the bin by the middle of October.

"During the past week, unharvested crops as well as emerging fall-seeded crops were damaged by wind, rain, and frost," the provincial agriculture department said. "Reporters raised concerns with sprouting and bleaching. Migratory waterfowl and wild game also caused some crop damage."

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