CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF JULY 17, 2005

Farmers made good haying progress across the province during the past week, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food's weekly crop report.

Crop reporters estimate 31 per cent of the first-cut hay crop has been baled or put into silage, up from six per cent last week. Some areas in the southeast part of the province have begun a second cut.

The first estimate of the 2005 hay yield indicated that dryland brome/alfalfa is expected to average 1.64 tons per acre, about 60 per cent above the 10-year average.

Fall cereals are reported to be at least 90 per cent in good to excellent condition, with 84 per cent at normal development. Spring cereals are reported to be at least 90 per cent in good to excellent condition, with 73 per cent at normal development. Oilseed crops are reported to be at least 83 per cent in good to excellent condition, with 78 per cent at normal development. Pulse crops are at least 71 per cent in good to excellent condition, with 80 per cent of the crop at normal development.

Topsoil moisture conditions on crop, hay, and pasture land continue to be generally adequate across the province. The number of reporters rating topsoil moisture as surplus has decreased to less than 10 per cent, but the number rating topsoil moisture as short and very short has increased to almost 20 per cent. The drier areas are mainly in the southwest and west central regions.

Wind and hail were major sources of crop damage during the past week. A number of farmers reported hail damage, particularly in west central, south western, and north eastern regions. Other sources of crop damage included flooding, insects, diseases, drought, heat, and gophers.

-30-

For More Information, Contact:

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