SEEDING PROGRESS NEAR AVERAGE

Saskatchewan farmers have seeded 69 per cent of the 2003 crop, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Farmers made significant progress last week and are nearing the five-year (1998-2002) average of 77 per cent. All regions of the province report more than 55 per cent seeded, with the northeast furthest advanced at 81 per cent and the southeast least advanced at 57 per cent. Only the Assiniboia area reports under 50 per cent seeded, due to wet field conditions.

Topsoil moisture conditions on cropland remain generally adequate, however, warm daytime temperatures and strong winds are drying out topsoil in many areas of the province. Topsoil moisture conditions are poor mainly in the northwest.

Almost 95 per cent of crop reporters rate pastures in their area in fair to excellent condition, the exception being the northwest, where pastures vary from poor to very poor condition. Less than five per cent of reporters indicate that their area has inadequate livestock water supplies – again mainly in the northwest.

Weed control operations continue as weather conditions permit. Limited reseeding is taking place for crops damaged by frost.

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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