Last week’s weather is giving producers some room for optimism, according to the latest crop report. From July 7 to July 13, warmer temperatures, increased sunshine and restricted precipitation have allowed for fields to dry, letting crops to catch up. In the meantime, producers continue to monitor for pests, disease, and weather impacts. Storms moving through Saskatchewan brought varying amounts of moisture, with some areas even reporting hail. The highest recorded level of rainfall was 88 millimeters in the Prince Albert area, with the Foam Lake area placing second at 72 mm. The Blaine Lake region received 65 mm, while the Redberry area received 62 mm. “Despite the relatively warm weather, with some areas experiencing dry conditions due to higher temperatures and wind, topsoil moisture levels in many regions remained relatively stable,” read the report. Seventeen per cent of cropland topsoil moisture is at a surplus while 80 per cent is adequate and three per cent is short. For Hayland topsoil moisture., 14 per cent is at a surplus, 83 per cent is adequate and three per cent is short. Pasture topsoil is at a 9 per cent surplus, with 84 per cent adequate and a 7 per cent short. The report says that most crops are at “the normal development stage.” That includes the following crops: Geographically, producers in the east-central region, along with some in the northeast and northwest, have reported “moderate to minor crop damage” from excess moisture and hail. Some was also concurrent with damage from gophers. Within the coming weeks, Saskatchewan producers will be “completing fungicide applications, finishing haying operations and preparing equipment for harvest.” Significant rainfall has caused some producers to start their second cut of hay. The province says cereal crops had the highest proportion of “excellent” ratings followed by oilseeds and pulses.
