Seeding reaches 45 per cent completed in the Southwest

Over one quarter of seeding work in the Southwest was completed in one seven day span according to Saskatchewan Ministry of Agriculture’s Crop Report for the period of May 8 to 14.

Southwest producers recorded a jump of 27 per cent in seeding operations, climbing from 18 per cent all the way to 45 per cent. Operations are slightly behind the five-year average of 50 per cent completed.

The Crop Report notes 62 per cent of the field peas, 60 per cent of the canola and lentils, 51 per cent of the chickpeas, 34 per cent of the durum and 31 per cent of the wheat are now in the ground.

Crops are emerging in good condition, which was helped by rain showers through most of the region. The Gull Lake area received 18 millimeters, the Swift Current area had 14 mm, the Hazenmore region recorded 12 mm, followed by the Limerick area at 7 mm, and the Leader area with 6 mm.

While most producers have indicated that moisture has been adequate for seeding, rain will be needed in the coming weeks to help with crop establishment. Pastures and hay land are greening up, although growth is slow due to a late spring and lack of moisture. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 57 per cent adequate, 31 per cent short and 12 per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 43 per cent adequate, 38 per cent short and 19 per cent very short.