BATTLEFORDS - The northwest continues to struggle through dry conditions as they come through another hot and relatively rain-free week, according to the crop report for the period of June 20 to 26. Very spotty and isolated rain showers passed through the region, leaving producers anxious about how much longer their crops can go on without significant moisture.
Crops are starting to mature rapidly in response to their growing conditions and this could possibly limit their yield potential and quality. Sixty-two per cent of the spring cereals, 63 per cent of the oilseed crops and 71 per cent of the pulse crops are at their normal stages of development for this time of year. The remaining crops are rated as being ahead of normal development. This trend will continue to get worse if the hot, dry conditions continue. Crop conditions range from fair to good in the region, with 57 per cent of the spring wheat, 52 per cent of the canola and 45 per cent of the peas being in good condition at this time.
There was some heavy precipitation and hail in the North Battleford area. In areas with most severe hail, Canola was affected the worst, followed by cereal crops such as wheat and barley. With the hailstorm came 50 mm of rain which also resulted in flooding and further crop damage, rainfall across the region ranged from two mm up to 50 mm.
Cropland topsoil moisture rated as one per cent surplus, 53 per cent adequate, 36 per cent short and 10 per cent very short. Hay and pasture land topsoil moisture is rated as seven per cent surplus, 45 per cent adequate, 32 per cent short and 17 per cent very short.
Haying has been slow in the region with only eight per cent of the crop cut and the rest still standing. Hay quality is rated as 11 per cent excellent, 33 per cent good, 44 per cent fair and 11 per cent poor.
The majority of crop damage this week was from flooding, severe hail and wind. Insect pests are causing some issues across the region and producers have been busy spraying to keep them under control.
