CROP REPORT FOR THE PERIOD OCTOBER 9 TO 15, 2012

Ninety-nine per cent of the crop has been harvested, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture's Weekly Crop Report. The five-year (2007-2011) provincial average for this time of year is 94 per cent combined. Warm and dry harvest weather allowed Saskatchewan producers to get the 2012 crop in the bin in mostly good condition.

The northwestern region has 98 per cent of the crop combined and all other regions are reporting that 99 per cent of the crop is in the bin. Ninety-five per cent of the flax has been combined.

Across the province, topsoil moisture on cropland is rated as two per cent surplus, 31 per cent adequate, 43 per cent short and 24 per cent very short. Hay land and pasture topsoil moisture is rated as one per cent surplus, 31 per cent adequate, 39 per cent short and 29 per cent very short.

The number of acres in the province seeded to winter wheat and fall rye has decreased by 46 and 36 per cent respectively, relative to 2011. This is mainly due to dry soil and seed germination concerns. Cattle producers have more-than-adequate winter hay supplies.

In general, crop yields are reported to be average. Crop quality and grade are generally good for much of the province. Seventy-seven per cent of spring wheat and durum, 78 per cent of lentils, 89 per cent of peas and 95 per cent of canola are expected to fall within the top two grades.

This is the last crop report of the growing season.

Follow the 2012 Crop Report on Twitter at @SKGovAg.

-30-

For more information, contact:

Grant McLean
Agriculture
Moose Jaw
Phone: 306-694-3592