Harvest has paused for lack of mature crops, with many producers waiting for crops to mature further. Sixty per cent of the crop is in the bin, up from 46 per cent last week and well ahead of the five-year (2013-2017) average of 42 per cent for this time of year. An additional 16 per cent is swathed or ready to straight-cut.
The majority of the region saw variable temperatures this week, with some cool days and light rain. The Vanguard area had the most rainfall this week (27 mm) and the most rainfall (229 mm) in the area since April 1.
Many pastures and hay fields are still in need of significant moisture. Topsoil moisture conditions have deteriorated since last week. Cropland topsoil moisture is rated as six per cent adequate, 53 per cent short and 41 per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture conditions are rated as three per cent adequate, 49 percent short and 48 per cent very short.
The majority of crop damage was due to lack of moisture and strong winds. Concerns remain about feed shortages and the risk of fire due to the dry conditions. Producers are busy combining, swathing and moving cattle.
