Weather Slows Saskatchewan Crop Development

REGINA - Aug 8/13 - SNS -- Cool and wet conditions has slowed development of crops across much of Saskatchewan, according to the latest crop progress report from the provincial agriculture department.

"The majority of crops are podding and filling. There are reports of some crops starting to turn and desiccation of peas and lentils has just started in some areas of the southwest and west-central regions," the provincial agriculture department said.

Most parts of the province received varying amounts of rain last week ranging from nil to 64 mm. Across the province, topsoil moisture on crop land is rated as 9% surplus, 77% adequate, 13% short and 1% very short. Insects, flooding, hail and wind caused some crop damage.

No harvest progress was reported in Saskatchewan during the week ending August 5. This is not unusual. Even so, during the same week last year farmers harvested 3% of their lentils, 6% of their peas and 1% of their mustard seed.

It would not be surprising to see limited progress reported through August 12. This could change the following week as both daytime and overnight temperatures in Saskatchewan are forecast to be several degrees higher than they have been. With most areas reporting the general harvest activity will be 10 to 14 days later than normal, a lengthy stretch of hot days would speed up crop development and the onset of harvest. At the same time, this will help ease any fears that may have been developing about the risk of a premature frost event.