CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF AUGUST 15TH

About one per cent of the 2004 crop has been swathed or is ready to straight combine, with less than half of one per cent combined – compared to the five-year averages of eight and four per cent respectively, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Crop development continues to be two to three weeks behind in many areas.

Harvest operations are most advanced in the southwest where one per cent of the crop has been combined. Winter wheat is one per cent combined; fall rye is six per cent; peas are two per cent; and mustard and triticale are each one per cent combined.

About 87 per cent of the first-cut hay crop and five per cent of the second-cut has been baled or put into silage. Quality is generally expected to be good, though weather delays are negatively affecting unbaled hay. About half of the crop reporters do not expect a second cut of hay in their district.

Insects, disease, wind and drought stress were the main sources of crop damage during the past week. Lodging is a concern in many areas of the province.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay, and pastureland continue to be adequate on over 70 per cent of the land. There are some surplus moisture areas in the northeast. The driest regions are between Kindersley and North Battleford and between Regina and Saskatoon.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

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