CROP IS 91 PER CENT SEEDED

Saskatchewan farmers have seeded the bulk of the 2003 crop, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Seeding progress is now on par with the five-year average. Farmers in all areas of the province have made good progress, with all crop districts showing seeding completion averages of more than 80 per cent.

Some areas of the province are reporting normal levels of crop development, while others are behind for this time period. Most crops are emerging evenly and in good condition.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop land deteriorated slightly during the past week with hot, windy weather. However, 71 per cent of reporters still rate topsoil moisture as adequate. On hay and pasture land, 64 per cent of reporters rate topsoil moisture as adequate. Subsoil moisture is generally good throughout the province.

Some reseeding is taking place due to wind, frost, uneven germination, and insect damage. Reporters indicate flea beetle and grasshopper populations are increasing in many areas.

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For More Information, Contact:

Terry Karwandy Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-5956 Email: tkarwandy@agr.gov.sk.ca