CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK ENDING MAY 29, 2005

Saskatchewan farmers have seeded 85 per cent of the 2005 crop as of May 29th, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

The five-year average for seeding completion at this date is 86 per cent.

Wet and/or windy weather during the past week limited the progress of fieldwork in many areas of the province.

Crops are generally emerging well. Some crop reporters indicated that later-seeded crops appear to be emerging better than early-seeded crops.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay and pasture land remained similar to the previous week. More than 80 per cent of reporters rated topsoil moisture as adequate. Localized areas, primarily in the southwest, report short topsoil moisture conditions due to the wind's drying action.

Pasture conditions have improved since the end of April with more than two-thirds of the reporters rating pastures in their area as good to excellent. Many pastures have sufficient moisture, but are lacking heat units for good growth. Livestock water supplies are reported to be adequate across the province.

Farmers report minimal weed control before crop emergence due to cool, windy weather. There are a few reports of flea beetles and cutworms, but the most damaging of crop pests are gophers in the southwest.

Frost was reported in south western and west central areas, but there are no damage estimates at this time.

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For More Information, Contact:

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