CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF JUNE 12TH, 2005

Seeding and spraying operations were slowed in the province due to rainy weather, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

Rainfall averages for the period of June 6th to June 12th, 2005 ranged from 51 mm in the southeast to 3 mm in the northwest, although substantially higher amounts were reported – including 154 mm in the Frontier area.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay, and pasture land are generally adequate across most of the province, though some regions, particularly in the eastern grainbelt, are experiencing surplus moisture.

Provincial crop development shows the following: over 40 per cent of spring cereals are in the tillering or jointed stages; 32 per cent of flax crops are in the vegetative or stem extension stages; 53 per cent of canola and mustard crops are in the seedling or rosette stages; 53 per cent of pulse crops are in the vegetative stage; and 42 per cent of fall cereal crops are in the heading stage.

Flooding was the main source of crop damage during the past week, and was reported in all regions of the grainbelt, except the northwest. Other, more isolated sources of crop damage include wind, insects (flea beetles, cutworms, wire worms), disease and gophers.

Farmers are becoming concerned about weed control as weather conditions hamper progress. It is estimated that about 95 per cent of the 2005 seeding is complete. Some farmers may need to revisit their initial seeding plans.

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For More Information, Contact:

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