YORKTON - Currently, just under two per cent of the region has been harvested, according to the crop report for the period of August 1 to 7. Producers are making their way into the fields as their crops ripen and dry down to the right moisture levels.
Field peas lead the harvesting efforts with 18 per cent of the crop harvested or used for other feed sources. Lentils are also being taken off, with 10 per cent harvested so far. Fall cereals are also maturing, with 16 per cent of fall rye taken off for the year and four per cent of the winter wheat acres harvested. Oilseed crops are still standing, with only two per cent of mustard harvested so far.
Alfalfa, brome/alfalfa and greenfeed are all estimated to yield 1.4 tons per acre. Producers are evaluating their feed sources and supply for this coming winter. Producers are also evaluating their winter water supply and have begun to haul water.
Scattered rain moved through the east-central region this past week. The Pelly area recorded the most rain this week with 31 mm of rain being received. Other areas received only trace amounts of rain. Soil moisture levels in the region are relatively unchanged this week, if not slightly improved. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as 18 per cent adequate, 40 per cent short and 42 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land is rated as 14 per cent adequate, 37 per cent short and 49 per cent very short.
Crop damage this past week is mostly due to drought stress and some reports of hail. Producers are busy working cattle, evaluating crop moisture levels and maturity and combining.
