OUTLOOK - Producers in the west-central region have made substantial progress with haying this past week, according to the weekly crop report for the period of July 4 to July 10. The warm and dry conditions persisted and allowed producers an uninterrupted opportunity to nearly complete the first cut of hay. They are hoping for further rain within the region.
Trace amounts of rain were recorded within the west-central region this week with the most being received in the Dinsmore area at 14 mm. Soil moisture levels further diminished this week with the hot and dry conditions. Cropland topsoil is currently 17 per cent adequate, 56 per cent short and 27 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is currently 11 per cent adequate, 55 per cent short, and 35 per cent very short.
The majority of crops in the west-central region are within the normal stages of development for this time of year. Crop conditions in the west-central region are spread between good to poor condition. Lentils and chickpeas are in the best condition at 40 and 50 per cent, respectively, of the crops are in good condition. Spring wheat and canola are in the poorest condition in the region, with 10 per cent of spring wheat and eight per cent of mustard in very poor condition.
Producers are nearing the completion of haying in the west-central region. Eight per cent of the first cut of hay is still standing, while 26 per cent is cut and 66 per cent has been baled or silaged. Hay quality is either fair or good.
Crop damage this week is due to hot and dry conditions with grasshoppers remaining a concern. Producers are currently haying and scouting their fields. With the heat, many are concerned about water quality.
