CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF SEPTEMBER 12TH

Cool, damp weather continues to slow harvest in Saskatchewan, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

Only 10 per cent of this year's crop has been combined, compared to the five-year average of 53 per cent. About 27 per cent has been swathed or is ready to straight combine.

Combining is furthest advanced in the southwest, where 24 per cent of the crop is off, followed by the southeast at 11 per cent. Combining is least advanced in the north, where one per cent of the crop is off.

Farmers are looking for an extended period of warm, drying weather to complete this year's harvest.

The main sources of crop damage during the past week were frost, insects and weathering. Crop quality is becoming a concern in many areas of the province as farmers find bleaching, staining, sprouting, mould and mildew. Hail caused damage in southeastern and east-central regions.

Some seeding of fall crops is underway though many are unable to seed due to the slow harvest and wet fields.

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For More Information, Contact:

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