Seeding progress made in Sask. despite poor weather

Significant seeding progress was made this past week as 38 per cent of the crop is now in the ground, ahead of the fiveyear average (2014-2018) of 31 per cent for this time of year. Crops are slow to emerge due to cool conditions.

Seeding is furthest advanced in the southeastern region, where 53 per cent of the crop is in the ground. Fifty-two per cent of the crop is seeded in the southwest, with 31 per cent seeded in the east-central region, 32 per cent in the west-central region, 22 per cent in the northeast and 28 per cent in the northwest. Rainfall was reported this past week throughout the province. The Nipawin area received the greatest amount: 21 mm. Most regions of the province need rain to help alleviate dry field conditions.

Provincially, cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 52 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and seven per cent very short. Topsoil moisture on hay land and pasture is rated as 46 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and 14 per cent very short. Hay and pasture growth has been slow due to little rainfall and cool conditions.

Winter wheat assessments are continuing as fields green up and temperatures rise. Farmers are busy seeding, working fields, controlling weeds and moving cattle.

Southwest Sask

Fifty-two per cent of the crop is now seeded, up significantly from 14 per cent last week and ahead of the five-year (2014-2018) average of 48 per cent for this time of year. Parts of the region reported receiving precipitation ranging from small amounts to 18 mm (Rockglen area). The Mossbank area reported 13 mm, while the Webb and Shaunavon areas reported 7 mm. The Shaunavon area has received the most precipitation since April 1 (90 mm).

Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 54 per cent adequate, 41 per cent short and four per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as 56 per cent adequate, 33 per cent short and 11 per cent very short. While producers have indicated that moisture is adequate for seeding, rain will be needed in the coming weeks to help with crop establishment.

Cool weather has slowed pasture growth and crop emergence in many areas. There are concerns about poorquality water for livestock. Farmers are busy seeding, working fields, branding and moving cattle.