CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 23RD, 2006

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay and pasture land are generally adequate to surplus across the province, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

Areas with surplus topsoil moisture are primarily located in the east central and northeastern regions, as well as some areas in the west central region. There are localized areas of short topsoil moisture in the southern grainbelt.

Pasture conditions are generally reported as fair to good. Pockets of poor and very poor conditions are mainly reported on the eastern side of the grainbelt and into the northwest, and are mostly due to excess moisture and lack of warm weather. In a number of areas, the weather has not been warm enough for strong grass growth.

Livestock water supplies are generally adequate across the province. Localized regions with inadequate supplies were reported in the southeast and the southwest regions of the province.

While a few individual rural municipalities report up to 20 per cent seeded, many areas have not started seeding due to wet and/or cold field conditions. Less than one-half of one per cent of the 2006 crop has been planted. Peas, durum and forages are most commonly reported as being seeded so far.

More pre-seeding field work got underway this past week. Farmers are picking rocks, harrowing, fertilizing, applying chemicals and cleaning grain.

Some combining was done in the west central region. Farmers report problems with wildlife and mould damage.

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For More Information, Contact:

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