CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 28TH, 2006

Saskatchewan farmers have seeded 80 per cent of the 2006 crop, up from 64 per cent the previous week, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

Problems due to excess moisture increased in some areas of northern and central Saskatchewan last week. Over one-quarter of crop reporters now rate topsoil moisture as surplus on crop land.

Limited progress was made with fieldwork in many areas of the province, due to wet and/or windy weather. Crop reporters indicated there is talk of changes to seeding plans, as seeding operations were again delayed by rain.

Pasture conditions have improved since the end of April. Over 80 per cent of the reporters rated pastures in their area as good to excellent. The percentage of reporters rating topsoil moisture conditions on hay and pasture land as short or very short decreased to 15 per cent, from 33 per cent the previous week. While livestock water supplies are generally adequate across the province, localized areas in the south are reporting insufficient supplies of livestock water.

Crops are generally emerging well. There have been reports of flea beetles sightings in some areas, as well as reports of gophers damaging crops and pasture. There was also some flooding of low lying areas, and some seed was washed out as a result of water erosion. Hail was reported in a number of localized areas, but damage to crops was expected to be minimal.

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For More Information, Contact:

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