CROP REPORT FOR THE WEEK OF MAY 16TH, 2004

Saskatchewan farmers have planted 41 per cent of the 2004 crop, ahead of the five-year average of 37 per cent, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization's weekly crop report.

All areas made seeding progress despite weather delays. The west-central region is furthest advanced with 52 per cent seeded, followed by the southwest at 50 per cent. All other regions have at least 30 per cent seeded.

Many southern areas received precipitation, improving topsoil moisture conditions substantially. Across the province, about 60 per cent of crop land is reported to have adequate topsoil moisture, up from 37 per cent last week. Central areas are most in need of additional moisture. Reporters indicate that 35 per cent of the hay and pasture land has adequate topsoil moisture, up from 20 per cent last week.

The moisture has enabled some farmers to proceed with their original seeding plans, and others to plant more oilseeds. However, continued dryness will mean fewer oilseeds in central areas. Producers may plant more cereals to make up for the slow growing hay crop.

Slow grass growth in pastures has caused concern for livestock owners as feed supplies diminish. Continued overnight freezing is also causing frost damage in newly emerging, fall-seeded, and hay crops.

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For More Information, Contact:

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