CROP REPORT FOR WEEK OF AUGUST 24TH, 2003

Hot and dry weather conditions continue to advance the 2003 harvest. Saskatchewan farmers have now combined 38 per cent of the 2003 crop, up from 13 per cent last week and above the five-year (1998-2002) average of 18 per cent, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food, and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

The southwestern portion of the province is furthest along in its harvest at 52 per cent, closely followed by both the southeast and west central regions which are at 41 per cent and 42 per cent respectively.

Harvesting of fall-seeded crops is most advanced with 91 per cent of the fall rye and 99 per cent of the winter wheat combined. Field pea crops are 87 per cent combined and lentils are at 78 per cent combined.

Insects and heat continue to be the main source of crop damage across the province. Strong winds were also reported to be blowing swaths and causing lodging in standing crops, making harvest difficult in some areas.

Topsoil moisture conditions continue to deteriorate on crop and pasture/hay land. Cropland and pasture/hay land topsoil moisture are rated at very low levels by 76 per cent and 85 per cent of crop reporters respectively. Many livestock operators are providing feed to their cattle to supplement poor pastures.

Yields of first and second cut brome/alfalfa on dry land averaged 1.1 tons per acre, slightly above the 10-year (1992-2001) average of 1.0 tons per acre. Hay yields were reported as average to above average in all regions of the province except for in the northwest, which is indicating below average yields.

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For More Information, Contact:

Laurel Pilsner Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization Regina Phone: (306)787-0574 Email: lpilsner@agr.gov.sk.ca