Crop report: Some producers won't start harvest until September

YORKTON - Overall, crops are still behind in development across the region with many producers in crop districts 5A and 5B noting they may not see their crops ready for harvest until September. A few producers in crop district 6A have begun their harvest operations and have reported that the crop looks very good. Most are expecting average to above average yields. Harvest progress for the region is at one per cent, behind the five-year average of four per cent.

There was widespread precipitation across the region this past week with most areas receiving 25 mm or more. The Humboldt area received 55 mm, the Saltcoats and Lipton areas received up to 49 mm and the Rhein and Rama areas received 20 mm. There are no widespread concerns about on-farm water supplies in the region for the time being. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as five per cent surplus, 76 per cent adequate, 16 per cent short and four per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as 77 per cent adequate, 16 per cent short and seven per cent very short.

The majority of crop damage this week was due to crops being lodged by strong winds and heavy rains. Some crops were also damaged by hail, with damage ranging from minor to severe. Producers are hoping for no more hail storms and that no frost occurs until after they have finished harvest.

Farmers are busy hauling grain, getting equipment and bins ready for harvest and starting to swath, desiccate and combine in some areas.