CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF OCTOBER 3RD

Farmers made the best week over week harvest progress so far this season, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

About 51 per cent of the 2004 crop has been harvested, behind the five-year average of 86 per cent, but up from last week's total of 30 per cent. The southwest and the west central region are furthest along, at 64 per cent complete. The northwest is least advanced, at 33 per cent. Winter wheat, fall rye, pea and lentil crops are all over 80 per cent combined. While some farmers have finished harvesting, others are less than half done.

Strong winds and hard frosts caused the majority of the crop damage during the past week. Migrating water fowl continued to damage crops. Grasshoppers caused damage to emerging fall-seeded crops. Overall crop quality is expected to be below average.

The hard frosts of the past week should act as a desiccant for any immature crops and could mitigate the problem of second growth and weed growth in mature crops.

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry Bédard Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306) 787-5956