CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 15TH, 2005

Saskatchewan farmers now have 47 per cent of the 2005 crop planted, ahead of the five-year average (2000-04) of 35 per cent, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

The southwest is furthest advanced with 66 per cent seeded, followed by the west central region with 53 per cent seeded. The northwest is least advanced at 29 per cent seeded.

Strong winds and a lack of precipitation continue to dry out topsoil south of Saskatoon. Almost 65 per cent of reporters rate their crop land as having adequate topsoil moisture, down from 82 per cent last week. East central and southwestern areas are reporting the driest topsoil at this time. A total of 52 per cent of reporters indicate that their hay and pasture land has adequate topsoil moisture, down from 69 per cent last week.

Reports of re-seeding canola, due mainly to frost damage, came from the southeast, southwest, and east central regions. Spraying was hampered by cool, windy weather.

Localized changes to original seeding plans were reported including less flax because of a shortage of quality seed, more peas because of good seed and fewer inputs, fewer oilseeds if surface moisture is not replenished, and more summerfallow due to heavy trash cover.

Pasture and hay lands are slow to grow due to cool, dry weather. Many producers continue to feed their livestock, especially in southern and central areas.

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For More Information, Contact:

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